Oh, honey, let me tell you, if there’s one dish that screams comfort, elegance, and “please give me seconds,” it’s the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe. I’ve been making versions of this classic for years, and it’s always, always a hit. Whether I’m bringing it to a potluck, serving it for a cozy family dinner, or just craving something utterly delicious, this casserole never disappoints. It’s got that perfect blend of creamy, savory, and a little bit crunchy that just makes my taste buds sing. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that gets passed down and talked about for a reason!
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents
Unveiling the Magic: What Makes This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe So Special?
So, what’s all the fuss about? Well, first off, this isn’t just any chicken casserole. The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe has a certain je ne sais quoi, a touch of class that elevates it from your everyday bake.
It’s rich, it’s flavorful, and honestly, it feels a little bit fancy without being difficult to make. That’s a win-win in my book! I think the combination of tender chicken, a super creamy sauce, and those delightful crunchy bits just works wonders together. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, and every bite is pure comfort.
A Touch of Elegance: The Origins of the Iconic Dish
Now, you might be wondering where this fabulous dish came from. The legend goes that this recipe, or at least its inspiration, originated from the iconic Zodiac Room restaurant at Neiman Marcus in Dallas.
It was created by their famed food director, Helen Corbitt, who was a culinary genius known for her sophisticated yet approachable dishes. She had a knack for taking simple ingredients and turning them into something extraordinary.
And let me tell you, this casserole is definitely extraordinary! It’s got that old-school charm, a recipe that feels like it’s been lovingly prepared in a high-end department store café, which, well, it kind of was! It’s a little piece of culinary history you can make right in your own kitchen.
Why This Recipe Stands the Test of Time
You know a recipe is a true keeper when it’s still popular decades later, right? And that’s exactly the case here. This casserole has endured because, quite frankly, it’s just plain good.
It’s reliable, it’s crowd-pleasing, and it uses ingredients that are pretty easy to find. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust it to match your preferences, but the base recipe is incredibly reliable. I think its enduring appeal also comes from the nostalgia factor.
For many, it’s a taste of childhood or a reminder of special occasions. And for newcomers, it’s an instant classic that they’ll want to make again and again. Trust me on this one!
Gathering Your Treasures: Ingredients for the Perfect Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Alright, before we can whip up this masterpiece, we need to gather our ingredients. And trust me, having everything ready to go makes the whole process so much smoother.
For this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe, the ingredients are pretty straightforward, but each one plays a key role in creating that signature taste and texture. I always say, good ingredients make good food!
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Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
- Total Time: 50-65 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and savory chicken casserole with a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sliced water chestnuts
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the cooked chicken, celery, water chestnuts, and half of the toasted almonds.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and the remaining almonds. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
- Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
The Star of the Show: Choosing Your Chicken
First things first, the chicken! You’ve got a few options here, and honestly, they all work great. My absolute favorite shortcut, especially on busy weeknights, is to use a store-bought rotisserie chicken.
It’s already cooked, seasoned, and super tender. Just pull the meat off the bones and give it a rough chop – easy peasy! If you prefer, you can absolutely cook your own chicken breasts or even thighs.
I sometimes poach them or bake them with a little salt and pepper until they’re cooked through. The trick is to use roughly 3 to 4 cups of cooked chicken, either shredded or diced. Just make sure it’s not overcooked, because it’ll cook a bit more in the casserole.
Creamy, Crunchy, and Delicious: Essential Add-ins
Now for the magic that makes this casserole so creamy and delightful! You’ll typically need a can of condensed cream of chicken soup – or cream of mushroom if you prefer, that works too! Some recipes call for a bit of mayonnaise or sour cream, and I think a dollop of either adds a lovely tang and extra creaminess.
Don’t skimp on these! Then, for that wonderful crunch and subtle flavor, we’ll add some finely chopped celery and sliced water chestnuts. I really enjoy the unexpected crunch that the water chestnuts add. And, of course, slivered or sliced almonds are a classic in this dish, adding a nutty flavor and another layer of texture.
Some folks even put a little lemon juice in, which I think brightens it up nicely!
Toppings That Make You Say “Wow!”
The topping is where you get that beautiful golden-brown crust and even more crunch! I usually go with crushed buttery crackers, like Ritz, tossed with a bit of melted butter. It’s just divine. Some people also like to add more almonds to the topping, or even some shredded cheddar cheese for an extra savory kick.
I’ve also seen versions with crushed potato chips, which sounds pretty wild but hey, whatever floats your boat! The important thing is to get a nice, even layer so every bite has a bit of that delicious topping.
My Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Okay, so you’ve got all your wonderful ingredients lined up. Now comes the fun part — assembling everything! I promise, making this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is easier than you think.
Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a bubbling, delicious casserole in no time. I always like to put on some music while I cook; it just makes the whole experience more enjoyable!
Prepping Your Ingredients Like a Pro
First up, let’s get everything prepped. If you haven’t already, cook and chop or shred your chicken.
Then, finely chop your celery. If you’re using canned water chestnuts, give them a drain and a rough chop too. I like to get all my chopping done at once – it’s called “mise en place,” which is just a fancy French term for having everything in its place. It really does save time and stress! Oh, and go ahead and preheat your oven, usually to around 350°F (that’s about 175°C).
And lightly grease your casserole dish – a 9×13 inch pan usually works perfectly for this.
Mixing Up the Magic: Creating the Casserole Base
Now, in a large bowl, we’re going to combine the cooked chicken, the chopped celery, and the chopped water chestnuts. Give those a gentle mix.
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together your cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise or sour cream (if you’re using it), a splash of lemon juice (if you like!), and any seasonings like salt, pepper, or maybe a tiny pinch of onion powder or garlic powder.
I usually go light on the salt at first, especially if the soup and rotisserie chicken are already salty. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out! Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken mixture and stir everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure every piece of chicken is nicely coated in that yummy sauce. Then, gently fold in most of your slivered almonds, saving some for the topping if you like.
Baking to Golden Perfection
Carefully spread the chicken mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Now for that glorious topping! In a small bowl, mix your crushed crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are all nicely moistened.
Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. If you’ve set aside some almonds, sprinkle them over the top as well. Pop that beauty into your preheated oven and bake for about 25 to 35 minutes.
You’re looking for it to be hot and bubbly around the edges, and the topping should be beautifully golden brown and crispy.
The smell that fills your kitchen? Oh, it’s just heavenly! Let it sit for a few minutes after you take it out of the oven; it’s super hot, and this also helps it set up a bit before serving.
My Kitchen Secrets for Making the Ultimate Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few little tricks that I think really take this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe from good to absolutely fantastic. These are just my personal preferences, but I hope they help you make your best version yet! It’s all about those little details, isn’t it?
Don’t Overcook That Chicken! My Secret for Tender Bites
This is a big one for me! Since the chicken is already cooked when it goes into the casserole, you really don’t want to overdo it in the oven. The baking time is mostly to heat everything through and get that topping nice and crispy.
If you cook the chicken too much initially, or bake the casserole for too long, the chicken can get dry and tough.
That’s why I love using rotisserie chicken – it’s usually perfectly moist to begin with. If you’re cooking your own chicken, just cook it until it’s no longer pink, then stop. Tender chicken makes all the difference in this dish!
Achieving the Perfect Creaminess (No Dry Casseroles Here!)
Nobody likes a dry casserole, right? The key to a perfectly creamy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is getting the balance of wet and dry ingredients just right. Make sure you’re using enough of the creamy components – the soup, mayo, or sour cream.
Don’t be tempted to add too many extra dry ingredients like breadcrumbs *inside* the casserole itself, as they can soak up too much moisture. The cracker topping is where you want that dry crunch.
Also, if your mixture looks a little too thick before baking, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up a bit. I always eyeball it – you want it to look saucy but not soupy.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepping for Easy Weeknight Dinners
This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal, which is a lifesaver for busy schedules! You can assemble the entire casserole – chicken mixture and all – put it in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
When you’re ready to bake, just take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand to let it come to room temperature a bit (this helps it bake more evenly). Then, add your cracker topping right before it goes into the oven so it stays nice and crispy.
If you’re starting with a cold casserole, you may need to tack on a few extra minutes to the baking time. This is my secret weapon for potlucks or when I know I’ll have a hectic evening!
Let’s Get Creative: Delicious Variations on the Classic Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
While the classic Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe is pretty darn perfect as it is, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up a bit, you know? I love experimenting in the kitchen, and this casserole is a great base for a little creativity. Don’t be afraid to play around and make it your own! Here are a few ideas I’ve tried and loved.
Spice It Up! Adding a Kick to Your Casserole
If you like a little heat, there are some easy ways to add a spicy kick to this dish. A pinch of cayenne pepper mixed into the sauce can add a nice warmth. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could add some finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed if you want less heat!) along with the celery.
Even a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce stirred into the creamy mixture can do the trick. My husband loves it when I add a little Sriracha for a bit of a zing.
Just start small; you can always add more, but it’s hard to take the heat away once it’s in there!
Cheese Lovers Unite: Exploring Different Cheesy Toppings
While the traditional topping is all about those buttery crackers, who doesn’t love a little extra cheese? Sprinkling some shredded cheese over the casserole before adding the cracker topping, or even mixing it in with the crackers, can add a wonderful gooey, savory element.
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice and melts beautifully. Monterey Jack would be great for a milder, super-melty cheese. Or, for a more sophisticated flavor, try some grated Parmesan or Gruyère. I sometimes do a mix – a little cheddar for meltiness and a little Parmesan for that salty bite. Yum!
Going Low-Carb or Gluten-Free? I’ve Got You Covered!
It’s totally possible to adapt this recipe if you’re watching your carbs or need a gluten-free option! For a low-carb version, you can skip the cracker topping and instead use crushed pork rinds mixed with butter, or just top it with extra almonds and maybe some cheese.
You’ll also want to ensure your cream of chicken soup is a low-carb variety or make your own creamy sauce using heavy cream, chicken broth, and a low-carb thickener.
For gluten-free, simply use gluten-free crackers for the topping and make sure your condensed soup is certified gluten-free.
There are some great gluten-free cream of chicken soups out there these days, or again, you can make a simple sauce from scratch. It might take a little tweaking, but you can definitely still enjoy this comforting dish!
What to Serve with Your Amazing Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
So, there you have it—your incredible Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe bubbling away and filling the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Now, what do you serve with it to make it a complete, satisfying meal? This casserole is pretty rich and flavorful on its own, so I like to pair it with sides that are either light and fresh or simple and comforting. Here are some of my go-to accompaniments!
Perfect Side Dish Pairings
When it comes to veggies, something simple and green is always a winner. Steamed green beans, perhaps tossed with a little butter and slivered almonds (to echo the casserole!), are a classic. Roasted asparagus with a squeeze of lemon is another lovely choice.
Even simple steamed broccoli or a colorful medley of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini would be fantastic. The idea is to have something that cuts through the richness of the casserole a bit and adds some nice color to your plate. I also think some sweet glazed carrots would be a delightful contrast.
Bread and Rolls: Soaking Up Every Last Bit of Sauce
Oh, you absolutely need something to soak up all that delicious, creamy sauce! A good crusty bread, like a French baguette or a rustic sourdough, is perfect for this. Just tear off a piece and get to dipping! Warm dinner rolls, either store-bought or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious, are also a fantastic choice.
My kids always fight over who gets the last roll to mop up their plate. There’s just something so satisfying about not letting any of that yummy sauce go to waste, right?
Refreshing Salads to Balance the Richness
A light, refreshing salad is the perfect complement to balance the rich, creamy flavors of the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole. A simple green salad with mixed lettuces, maybe some cherry tomatoes and cucumber, tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing works beautifully.
I particularly like a lemon vinaigrette or a tangy balsamic glaze. It adds a fresh, crisp element to the meal and makes everything feel a little more balanced. You don’t need anything too complicated; the casserole is the star, after all!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe
Why is it called Nixon chicken?
Nixon Chicken, or President Nixon’s Chicken Casserole, is a different chicken casserole recipe, though it sometimes gets confused with the Neiman Marcus version because both are creamy and comforting. The key difference is that Nixon Chicken typically includes broccoli and, most notably, curry powder in its sauce, giving it a distinct flavor profile. The Neiman Marcus casserole doesn’t usually feature curry. So, while both are well-loved casseroles, they have different ingredient lists and tastes
What can I add to chicken casserole to make it taste better?
Oh, there are so many ways to boost the flavor of a chicken casserole! For this Neiman Marcus casserole recipe style, I love sautéing the celery with a bit of onion first. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish. You could also try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the creamy mixture. Some folks like to stir in a touch of Dijon mustard for a subtle tang. Using good quality chicken broth if you’re thinning the sauce, or even a splash of white wine, can add depth. And don’t forget fresh herbs! A little fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on top before serving can make a big difference. Experiment and see what you like best!
Is Neiman Marcus chicken casserole recipe easy to make?
Yes, it really is! That’s one of the best things about it. Even though it tastes so rich and special, the steps are quite simple. It mostly involves mixing cooked chicken with a creamy sauce and some crunchy bits, then topping it with buttered crackers and baking. Using a rotisserie chicken makes it even easier. It’s a great recipe for beginner cooks or for when you want something impressive without a ton of fuss.
Can I freeze Neiman Marcus chicken casserole recipe?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes pretty well. I recommend assembling it but leaving off the cracker topping if you plan to freeze it. Let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with a layer of plastic wrap and then a layer of foil, or transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Then, add the fresh cracker topping right before baking. You might need to add a little extra baking time if it’s still quite cold from the fridge.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it – everything I know and love about the incredible Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe! From its elegant beginnings to its status as a comfort food icon, this dish truly has it all. It’s creamy, it’s crunchy, it’s satisfying, and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. I really hope you give this recipe a try in your own kitchen. There’s nothing quite like the smell of it baking and the joy of sharing it with people you care about.
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