SPREAD LOVE

Short, Catchy Intro

So you want comfort food that hugs your soul but does not require chef-level drama, huh? This Creamy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is the ultimate kitchen cheat code. It is cheesy, cozy, and sneaks vegetables in via green onions like a culinary ninja. Trust me, friends, this is the casserole everyone asks for seconds of at potlucks and family dinners.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Why is this recipe awesome? First, it is basically the culinary equivalent of sweatpants. It holds you close and makes you feel good. Second, it is idiot proof. Even if you forget to set a timer once in a blue moon, the flavors are forgiving. Third, the Ritz cracker topping gives a salty, buttery crunch that catapults plain creamy chicken into world-class comfort territory.

Want something a little fancier later? Try pairing it with a lighter bake like a chicken cordon bleu casserole for a dinner rotation upgrade. IMO, casseroles are the true superheroes of leftovers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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

Yes, that is all. No mysterious powders, no obscure spices. You probably have half of this in your fridge right now. If not, add it to your grocery list and come back to bask in cheesy glory.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ensure you have 3 cups of cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. If starting with raw chicken, cook it by boiling or baking (approx. 20-25 mins at 375°F/190°C), then cool slightly and shred or dice.
In a medium bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with the 1/2 cup of melted butter. Stir until all crumbs are evenly coated. Set aside.
In a very large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Whisk until completely smooth and well combined.
Stir in the sliced green onions, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
Gently fold the prepared shredded chicken into the creamy mixture until evenly coated.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the creamy chicken mixture into the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over this layer, then top with the remaining chicken mixture. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and finally the buttery Ritz cracker crumbs on top.
Bake for 30-40 minutes until hot and bubbly, and the cracker topping is golden brown. Loosely tent with foil if it browns too quickly.
Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Thinking you do not need to preheat the oven. Rookie move. Preheat. Always.
Skimping on the cracker coating. If you underbutter the crumbs you lose that glorious crunch. Coat crumbs well.
Piling the cheese unevenly. If one side has all the cheese, you will have sad dry spots. Distribute evenly.
Not letting it rest. Hot casseroles are molten lava. Waiting 10 minutes = clean plates and less regret.
Using super watery chicken or not draining it. Excess moisture leads to a soggy mess. Pat chicken dry or drain well.

Alternatives & Substitutions

No cream cheese? Use an extra 1/2 cup sour cream plus a little flour to thicken, but cream cheese gives the best texture.
Want less mayo? Replace some or all with plain Greek yogurt for tang and fewer calories. I do this occasionally to feel slightly virtuous.
Cheese swap? Try Monterey Jack or a cheddar pepper blend for extra kick. Swiss works if you want nuttier notes.
Cracker topping alternatives? Use panko mixed with parmesan for a lighter crunch. It will taste different but still delicious.
Vegetarian twist? Substitute shredded roasted cauliflower or store-bought meatless chicken for the chicken. Not quite the OG, but respected.
Low salt? Use unsalted butter and low sodium crackers and season to taste. Trust your palate.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q Why is my casserole watery sometimes
A Did you squeeze or drain the chicken? Excess liquid from undercooked or overmoist chicken will make everything limp. Pat or drain the chicken before mixing.

Q Can I make this ahead of time
A Yes. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add about 10 extra minutes to baking time if you put it in cold from the fridge.

Q Can I freeze leftovers
A Absolutely. Cool completely then freeze in airtight containers. Reheat in the oven until warmed through to keep that crispy top happier.

Q Can I use margarine instead of butter
A Well, technically yes, but why hurt your soul like that? Butter tastes better and browns nicer. If you must, use margarine and manage expectations.

Q Can I double the recipe for a crowd
A Yep. Use a larger dish or two 9×13 pans. Baking time may increase slightly. Use an oven-safe thermometer to check for hot bubbly center.

Q What sides go with this casserole
A Keep it simple. A green salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread will make the meal balanced and satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There you go. A creamy, crunchy, slightly decadent casserole that feels fancy but is so easy you will wonder why you ever worried about complicated dinners. Bold flavor, simple steps, and crowd-pleasing results. Let the casserole rest before you dig in. It makes serving easier and keeps everyone safer from lava burns. Now go impress someone or just treat yourself. You earned it, chef.

Conclusion

If you want to compare this to other versions or see the classic inspiration, check out the original Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole on Allrecipes and another great take over at The Country Cook. For more casserole experiments and variations, these sources helped shape the vibe here: Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe and Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole – The Country Cook.