Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Warm, Cheesy Comfort Bake

Introduction

This creamy, crunchy casserole is the kind of dish that arrives at the table steaming and confident, filling the room with cheddar and buttery cracker aroma. It’s easy to make on a weeknight yet elegant enough for guests, using simple ingredients you might already have in the fridge. Shredded cooked chicken turns tender and cozy when folded into cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar, then finished with a golden Ritz cracker topping. If you love fuss-free family meals that photograph beautifully for Pinterest, this casserole delivers both flavor and style. For another no-fuss chicken bake idea, try this dump-and-bake chicken tzatziki casserole for a bright, herby twist.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This casserole hits that sweet spot between comfort food and convenience. It uses cooked shredded chicken so prep is limited to mixing and topping, which makes it ideal for busy evenings or casual entertaining. The combination of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise creates a lush, silky base that holds the shredded chicken and cheddar together like a warm blanket. The crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter create an irresistible crunchy crown that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. It’s also endlessly adaptable: add a handful of frozen peas, swap in pepper jack for a kick, or toss in roasted red peppers for color. For a lighter spin with bright flavors, consider the tangy options in this healthy salsa verde chicken casserole and borrow ideas that suit your pantry.

Flavor and Texture

Every forkful delivers a comforting mouthfeel: creamy, cheesy filling punctuated by the crisp cracker top. The cream cheese and sour cream lend a rich, tangy base while mayonnaise adds silkiness, helping the shredded chicken stay moist. Sharp cheddar brings a nutty, melty depth that browns slightly at the edges for those savory notes that make you want a second helping. Green onions add a fresh, oniony pop to cut through the richness, and garlic powder provides a gentle savory backbone. The Ritz cracker topping absorbs some of the bake’s juices then crisps in the oven, giving the casserole an inviting golden crust.

Ingredients

• Cooked Chicken Breast: 3 cups, shredded
• Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened
• Sour Cream: 1 cup
• Mayonnaise: 1/2 cup
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups
• Green Onions: 1/2 cup, sliced
• Garlic Powder: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt and Pepper: to taste
• Crushed Ritz Crackers: 2 sleeves
• Butter: 1/2 cup, melted

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
2. Mix cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Fold in chicken, cheddar, and green onions.
3. Spread mixture evenly into the greased dish.
4. Mix crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
5. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
6. Let rest 5–10 minutes after baking.
7. Serve warm with garnish if desired.

Tips for Best Results

Use warm or room temperature cream cheese so it blends smoothly with the sour cream and mayonnaise, avoiding lumps. Shred the chicken finely so every bite gets a balanced amount of cheese and sauce. If you prefer extra crisp, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely so the crackers do not burn. For more color and texture, stir in a cup of thawed peas or a half cup of chopped roasted bell pepper before spreading the mixture in the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning before baking since the cheddar and cracker topping add salt.

Storage and Make Ahead

This casserole stores well covered in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheats nicely in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. To freeze, assemble in a freezer-safe dish without the cracker topping, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months; add the cracker topping and bake directly from frozen, increasing baking time as needed. If making ahead for a gathering, prepare through step three, cover, and refrigerate for several hours before adding the cracker topping and baking. Leftovers also make a great filling for sandwiches or scooped over rice for a quick lunch.

Final Thought

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is comfort food that looks as good as it tastes and comes together with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy families, potlucks, and anyone who loves a creamy, cheesy bake with a buttery crunch. Make it your own with small add-ins and enjoy the warm, satisfying results.

Conclusion

For the original inspiration and full recipe reference, see the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe which helped shape this easy, crowd-pleasing version.

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