Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Creamy & Crunchy Comfort Dish

Why I Love This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Comfort Food That’s Simple but Special

There’s something deeply comforting about a hot, creamy casserole—and this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has become a true favorite in my kitchen. I love it because it strikes the perfect balance between rich and cozy, without being fussy or hard to make. It feels indulgent, like something you’d order at a fancy café, yet it comes together with ingredients you probably already have at home. I can prep it in minutes, whether I’m using my Instant Pot or letting it simmer in the slow cooker while I walk my dog Charlie.

The flavors hit all the right notes: tender chicken, sharp cheddar, salty bacon, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping that gives every bite a little crunch. And then there are the sliced almonds and green onions—simple additions that elevate the dish and add a touch of texture and freshness. Every time I serve this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, whether to family or friends, it disappears fast.

This is also a recipe that adapts to your mood and what’s in the fridge. No sour cream? Use Greek yogurt. Want a little extra heat? Add more hot sauce or crushed red pepper. That flexibility makes it a go-to in my meal rotation. And for someone who grew up watching her mom turn pantry staples into magic, this dish feels like a full-circle moment—easy, comforting, and always satisfying.

A Go-To for Busy Weeknights and Casual Gatherings

Another reason I keep coming back to this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is how crowd-pleasing it is. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but craving something hearty. I’ve even served it during casual get-togethers, alongside a salad and Air Fryer Alexia Sweet Potato wedges for a complete, no-stress meal.

It also stores and reheats beautifully. I’ve packed leftovers for lunch and even layered the creamy filling over toast the next day—pure heaven. It reminds me a bit of the comfort and ease found in my Honey Garlic Chicken—a simple recipe that still delivers on flavor.

Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping, or just need something soul-soothing, this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole never lets me down.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Instant Pot Method: One-Pot Comfort Made Fast

When time is short but comfort food cravings hit, I reach for the Instant Pot. This version of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole takes just a few steps and delivers rich, creamy results every time.

Step 1: Start with the base

Pour 1/2 cup of chicken broth into your Instant Pot. Place your chicken (fresh or frozen) on top. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and a bit of salt.

Step 2: Pressure cook to perfection

Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to LOW pressure. Cook for 12 minutes if your chicken is thawed or 15 minutes if it’s frozen. Let the pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before opening the valve.

Step 3: Shred the chicken

Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and set it aside.

Step 4: Thicken the sauce

Whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Turn the pot to sauté and stir in the slurry. Simmer briefly until the sauce begins to thicken, then turn off the heat.

Step 5: Stir in the richness

Mix 1/2 cup of milk and 1/2 cup of sour cream with a few spoonfuls of the hot liquid to prevent curdling. Pour it into the pot. Add back the chicken, then stir in shredded cheddar, bacon crumbles, chopped green onions, sliced almonds, and a touch of hot sauce.

Step 6: Add the final crunch

In a small bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole. If you have an air fryer lid, crisp the topping for a few minutes at 350°F.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Dish up this warm, cheesy Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.

Slow Cooker Method: Set-It-and-Forget-It Style

If you prefer a slower, hands-off approach, the slow cooker version of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole delivers all the flavor with minimal effort.

Step 1: Load your cooker

Add the chicken and broth to your slow cooker. Season generously with the same spice blend: poultry seasoning, garlic and onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Let it simmer

Cook on low for about 4 hours until the chicken becomes tender and easy to shred.

Step 3: Shred and return

Once cooked, remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the pot.

Step 4: Thicken the base

Mix your cornstarch and water, then stir it into the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high and let it cook uncovered until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Stir in the creamy goodness

Temper the milk and sour cream with some of the hot broth, then add them in. Mix well with cheese, bacon, green onions, almonds, and hot sauce.

Step 6: Finish with buttery crackers

Just before serving, sprinkle the crushed cracker and butter topping over the dish. No oven necessary—this casserole is ready to serve as-is.

Both methods give you a luscious, savory Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole that tastes like a lot more work than it really is. I often pair it with Lemon Herb Air Fryer Salmon or Air Fryer Sweet Potatoes for a well-rounded, cozy dinner.

Serving Suggestions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

One of the things I love most about Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is how flexible it is when it comes to serving. It’s creamy, savory, and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple dish into a full, balanced meal.

For a cozy, filling dinner, spoon the casserole over warm white rice or buttery mashed potatoes. Both soak up the creamy sauce beautifully and make the dish feel even more indulgent. If you’re looking to keep it simple, a thick slice of toasted crusty bread works perfectly too—especially to scoop up the rich sauce and melted cheese.

When I want something fresher, I serve this casserole with a crisp green salad. A lemon vinaigrette or light balsamic dressing adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the dish. Steamed green beans or roasted broccoli are great veggie options that add color and crunch to your plate.

For a low-carb version, serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole over cauliflower rice or roasted zucchini slices. The flavors still shine through, and it feels just as satisfying without the extra starch.

Leftovers are incredibly versatile. You can stuff them into baked potatoes, layer them in a wrap, or even reheat and serve over pasta. I’ve also turned leftovers into a next-day brunch option by spooning them into a small ramekin, topping with an egg, and baking until set.

Whether you’re making it for family dinner or prepping for guests, Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole fits right in. It’s rich and flavorful enough to be the star of the table, but it also plays well with all kinds of simple, comforting sides. However you serve it, you’ll want seconds.

Storage Instructions for Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

When I make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole, I always plan for extras. Not only does it reheat beautifully, but the flavor somehow gets even better after a day or two. Whether you’re saving leftovers or prepping it ahead of time, here’s how to store it the right way.

Short-Term: In the Refrigerator

Let the casserole cool slightly before packing it away. I usually scoop leftovers into a sealed container once it’s warm—not hot—to avoid condensation. Store it in the fridge and enjoy it within four days.

To reheat, you’ve got options. A quick microwave zap works well for small servings—just a minute or two, stirred halfway through. For larger portions, I pop it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep that creamy texture intact. If it thickens too much, I stir in a splash of milk before baking.

Long-Term: Freezing for Later

Freezing is a great way to get a second meal out of this casserole. Once cooled, I portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the dish tightly in foil if I’m freezing it whole. Try to lay it flat in the freezer so it chills evenly. It stays good for up to 3 months.

When it’s time to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. I reheat it in the oven until hot all the way through—usually 25 to 30 minutes at 350°F. A quick stir halfway through brings everything back to life.

However you store it, Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole keeps its cozy flavor and makes leftovers something to look forward to.

Conclusion

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has all the makings of a go-to dinner: it’s creamy, packed with flavor, and comes together with simple ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals for the week, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Its rich texture, crispy topping, and savory depth make every bite feel like comfort in a dish. And with how easily it reheats and stores, it’s just as practical as it is delicious.

If you’re new to casseroles or just looking to try a fresh twist on a classic, this one’s a keeper. Give it a try—you may just find it becomes part of your regular meal lineup.