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–+ servings
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole 1

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

This legendary Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a rich, creamy masterpiece that combines tender chicken with a velvety sauce and perfectly crunchy buttery cracker topping. It's a luxurious yet comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 620 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

Ingredients
  

Creamy Chicken Mixture

  • 4 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded (rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
  • 1 cup sour cream full-fat provides the best texture
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
  • 1 cup mayonnaise use real mayonnaise, not salad dressing
  • 1 cup celery finely diced (about 3 stalks)
  • 1/2 cup almonds slivered
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Buttery Cracker Topping

  • 2 sleeves Ritz crackers about 60 crackers
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted (1 stick)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, and sour cream, stirring until silky smooth.
  • Fold in the diced celery, chopped onion, slivered almonds, and fresh lemon juice.
  • Add the cooked chicken to the mixture, folding gently to maintain texture. Then incorporate 1½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving ½ cup for the top.
  • Season with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.
  • Crush the Ritz crackers in their sleeve or place them in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin for a controlled crush. In a separate bowl, combine the cracker crumbs with melted butter, stirring until every crumb is coated.
  • Transfer the chicken mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
  • Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, then distribute the buttery cracker mixture evenly across the surface.
  • Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown.
  • Let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set properly.

Notes

Feel free to swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier, lighter option.
Turkey works beautifully instead of chicken.
Water chestnuts can substitute for almonds if nut allergies are a concern.
Gluten-free crackers work well for those avoiding gluten.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 28gFat: 48gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 110mgSodium: 890mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Chicken Casserole, Neiman Marcus Chicken, Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken Casserole
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