Looking for a comforting, cheesy, and irresistible casserole that will wow your family or guests? The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a timeless classic known for its creamy base, crunchy topping, and unbeatable flavor combination. Packed with tender shredded chicken, smoky bacon, tangy sour cream, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, this dish is the perfect weeknight dinner or potluck favorite.

This casserole is easy to prepare, feeds a crowd, and tastes like a gourmet meal without the fuss. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday gathering, meal prepping for busy nights, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crowd-Pleaser: A guaranteed hit at family dinners, potlucks, or parties.
• Cheesy & Creamy: The combination of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup creates a rich and indulgent flavor.
• Crunchy Topping: Buttery Ritz crackers and almonds add a satisfying crunch.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and bake when ready.
• Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Casserole Base:

• 4 cups shredded cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or freshly poached chicken for extra flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Provides a creamy and savory base.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and a rich texture.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar works best, but mild can be used for a creamier taste.
• ½ cup sliced green onions: Brightens up the flavor with a fresh bite.
• ½ cup slivered almonds: Adds crunch and a nutty undertone.
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Smoky, salty flavor that elevates the casserole.
• 1½ teaspoons hot sauce: Balances the richness with a touch of heat.

For the Topping:

• 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed: Buttery crackers that bake into a golden crust.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the topping and creates a crisp finish.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Bacon: It adds smoky depth and balances the creaminess.
• Add a Veggie Boost: Mix in broccoli florets, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers: Swap part of the cheddar for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a gooier texture.
• Crunch Factor: For more texture, mix breadcrumbs with Ritz crackers in the topping.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping), refrigerate overnight, and add the topping before baking.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or extra hot sauce for a bold twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers or panko for the topping.
• Lighter Version: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cheese.
• Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn, then top with crushed tortilla chips.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute chicken with cooked mushrooms or roasted vegetables.

Pairing Suggestions

This casserole pairs perfectly with:

• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans
• Garlic bread or homemade dinner rolls
• A refreshing glass of iced tea or Chardonnay

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked casserole (without cracker topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions.

Popular Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the chicken mixture and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the topping just before baking for the best texture.

What can I substitute for Ritz crackers?
Club crackers, buttery breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips work well.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or canned chicken all work.

How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake uncovered, and avoid adding the topping until just before baking.

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