Looking for a comforting, creamy dinner that comes together in just 5 steps? This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a legendary dish rooted in department store cafe culture—and now, it’s a favorite in kitchens across America. Packed with savory chicken, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a golden Ritz cracker topping, it’s everything you love in one bite.
Table of Contents
What is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a baked dish that combines shredded chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, Cheddar cheese, bacon, and almonds under a buttery Ritz topping. Originally inspired by the upscale Neiman Marcus café menu, this hearty casserole has become a beloved comfort food in home kitchens everywhere.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1½ teaspoons hot sauce (e.g., Tabasco®), or to taste
- 1 sleeve Ritz® crackers, crushed
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix chicken, soup, sour cream, cheese, onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce in a bowl.
- Pour mixture into baking dish and smooth the top.
- Top with combined crushed crackers and melted butter.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Add garlic powder or Dijon mustard to boost flavor.
- Use Pepper Jack instead of Cheddar for a spicy twist.
- Add cooked mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
What Wine Pairs with Chicken Casserole?
Try a glass of unoaked Chardonnay or crisp Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy, savory flavors of this Neiman Marcus chicken casserole. Learn more about pairing wine with chicken dishes (external link – DoFollow).
Related Questions (PAA Optimized)
Why is it called Nixon Chicken?
It’s a rumored nickname from the 1960s suggesting the casserole may have been served at political events attended by the Nixons. No confirmed origin.
What can I add to chicken casserole to make it taste better?
Enhance the flavor with roasted garlic, Dijon mustard, chopped herbs, or a squeeze of lemon.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 724
- Fat: 55g
- Saturated Fat: 26g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sodium: 1105mg
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded cooked chicken e.g., rotisserie
- 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese preferably sharp
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1½ teaspoons hot sauce e.g., Tabasco®, or to taste
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers e.g., Ritz®, crushed
- 1/2 cup butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chicken, soup, sour cream, cheddar, green onions, almonds, bacon, and hot sauce. Stir until well blended.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers and melted butter. Mix well and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions or parsley if desired.
Notes
Serve with green beans, a crisp salad, or mashed potatoes. Pairs well with unoaked Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
Notes & Tips
For extra flavor, add garlic powder or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Swap Cheddar for Pepper Jack if you like a little heat. This dish freezes well—wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months.