Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – Creamy, Cheesy & Topped with Buttery Ritz Crackers

If you’re anything like me, you probably have a few casserole recipes on standby for those nights when you want something hearty, creamy, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Well, let me introduce you to one of my absolute favorites: the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.

This dish is legendary in Southern kitchens—and for good reason. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy, and has the perfect buttery crunch on top thanks to Ritz crackers. It’s the kind of recipe you make once and then immediately add to your forever file.

Let me show you just how easy (and insanely satisfying) this casserole really is.

Why You’ll Love This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

• Ultra-creamy without being heavy
• Packed with flavor thanks to garlic, cheddar, and green onions
• Topped with buttery Ritz crackers for that crave-worthy crunch
• Easy to make ahead or freeze
• Perfect for potlucks, meal trains, or weeknight dinners

This is comfort food at its finest, and yes—it really is inspired by that Neiman Marcus!

Ingredients for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 sleeves Ritz crackers, crushed
• 1/2 cup butter, melted

Quick Tip: Use rotisserie chicken to save time—or batch-cook chicken earlier in the week.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Cream cheese (softened)
   • Sour cream
   • Mayonnaise
   • Garlic powder
   • Salt and pepper
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in the cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, and green onions.

The filling should be thick, creamy, and dotted with cheesy goodness.

3. Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter.
3. Sprinkle the buttery crackers over the top of the casserole.

Don’t skip the topping—that golden crunch is part of the magic!

4. Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

5. Rest and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
• Garnish with more green onions or fresh parsley, if desired.

What to Serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

This dish is rich and flavorful, so pair it with lighter sides:

• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Simple garden salad
• Garlic roasted asparagus
• Rice or buttered egg noodles
• Fresh fruit salad

Wondering what to serve with Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole? Try a crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette—it balances the richness beautifully.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to make it your own? Here are a few twists:

• Add rice: Turn it into a Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole with Rice by folding in 1 cup of cooked rice.
• Use different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a kick.
• Mix in veggies: Stir in thawed frozen peas, chopped spinach, or sautéed mushrooms.
• Make it in the crockpot: Combine everything but the crackers and cook on low for 3–4 hours, then top with crushed crackers just before serving.

Storage + Make-Ahead Tips

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Assemble (without cracker topping) and freeze for up to 2 months. Add topping before baking.
• Reheat: Bake at 325°F until warm, or microwave individual portions.

This also makes a great take-and-bake meal for new parents or anyone who could use a little comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Neiman Marcus casserole?

It’s a creamy chicken casserole made famous by its indulgent ingredients—chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, and buttery Ritz topping.

Why is it called Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

The name likely comes from the luxurious, rich texture—like something indulgent you’d find at the iconic department store’s cafe.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! Assemble it up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Add the cracker topping right before baking.

Is there a video for this recipe?

A Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole video is coming soon on our Pinterest—stay tuned!

Related Casseroles You’ll Crave Next

• If you’re craving something equally creamy and comforting, this Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole is a must-try.
• Love cheesy casseroles? This Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole brings hearty flavor to your dinner table.
• Another classic to bookmark is the Melt in Your Mouth Chicken — tender, juicy, and incredibly easy.

A Final Note from My Kitchen

This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is the kind of recipe that becomes tradition in your home. It’s that good. Creamy, cheesy, buttery, and crunchy—all in one bite. Whether you’re serving it to guests or just making it on a busy weeknight, it delivers every time.

Let me know if you give it a try! Tag me on Pinterest @RitzyRecipes and share your version—I love seeing what you cook!

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