By Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has been around for years because it’s one of those dishes that feels like comfort food with a little flair.
It’s creamy.
It’s cheesy.
It’s got a buttery cracker topping.
And it somehow turns everyday ingredients into something that feels special.
This version keeps it simple, balanced, and easy to make at home — no fuss, no mystery ingredient that you can’t pronounce.
What This Recipe Actually Is
This casserole is a mix of:
Tender cooked chicken
Creamy seasoned sauce
Cheesy layers
Crunchy buttery cracker topping with poppy seeds
It’s a mash-up of textures that works — creamy inside, golden and crisp on top.
No weird steps.
No overcooked chicken.
Just the classic balance that makes this dish a favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cooked chicken (shredded or cubed) – 3 cups
- Cream of chicken soup – 1 can (10.5 oz)
- Sour cream – 1 cup
- Mayonnaise – ½ cup
- Grated cheddar cheese – 1 cup
- Grated Swiss or mozzarella cheese – 1 cup
- Ritz crackers (crushed) – 1½ sleeves
- Poppy seeds – 1 tablespoon
- Butter (melted) – ½ cup
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Onion powder – ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
How to Mix the Casserole
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, mix:
- Cream of chicken soup
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
Stir until smooth.
Add the shredded chicken and half of the cheddar and Swiss (or mozzarella).
Mix gently so the chicken stays tender.
This is the creamy base.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
In a separate bowl, combine:
Crushed crackers
Melted butter
Poppy seeds
Mix until everything is coated.
Spread the cracker mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
The top should be golden brown, and the edges should be bubbling.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Resting helps the sauce set so it doesn’t run when you slice.
Why This One Works
The creamy base is rich without being greasy.
Two kinds of cheese give melt and flavor.
The cracker topping stays crunchy instead of soggy.
Poppy seeds add just a slight texture twist that makes it memorable.
This isn’t fussy food.
It’s thoughtfully composed comfort.
How I Actually Serve It
- With mashed potatoes
- Over rice
- With simple steamed veggies
- Alongside a salad
It’s rich enough to stand on its own but pairs well with plain sides.
Easy Variations
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Swap Swiss for mozzarella or Gruyère.
Add a pinch of paprika or thyme for extra depth.
Mix in broccoli florets for a veggie boost.
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
If the topping softens, you can crisp it up under the broiler for a minute.
Final Thought
Neiman Marcus chicken casserole isn’t fancy — but it feels like it.
It’s creamy where it should be, crunchy where it matters, and rich without being overdone.
Make it once, and it’ll become one of those dishes people ask for again.
If you want
a lighter version
a slow cooker variation
or a one-pot weeknight twist
Tell me.