There’s a reason the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole has gone from a luxury lunch to a weeknight favorite in kitchens across America. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden cracker crust, this dish is inspired by the famous Neiman Marcus dip, but reborn as a hearty, satisfying meal.
Packed with shredded chicken, smooth cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and crunchy bacon, it’s rich without being heavy. And when you take that first forkful of buttery cracker topping? You’ll know why this is often called the Neiman Marcus Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to create this restaurant-inspired classic using simple ingredients from your fridge and pantry. You’ll also get expert tips, storage advice, and ideas for making it ahead or freezing it.
Ready to make a casserole that tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen, but takes less than 10 minutes to prep? Let’s get started.
Direct Answer Section
What is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
It’s a creamy baked chicken dish inspired by the Neiman Marcus Dip, made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, bacon, and a buttery cracker topping.
Is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole the same as Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
They’re often used interchangeably. Both are rich, cheesy casseroles with creamy bases and crispy toppings, but this version draws directly from the original Neiman Marcus flavors.
Can I use canned chicken in this recipe?
Yes! While shredded rotisserie chicken offers the best texture, canned chicken works in a pinch for quick prep.
What makes it “Million Dollar”?
It’s all about the decadent combo of cream cheese, bacon, and crackers—simple ingredients that taste indulgent when baked together.
Can I make it ahead?
Definitely. Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Table of Contents
The Story & Personal Connection
Why This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Became a Staple in My Vermont Kitchen
You know those recipes that don’t just feed your family, but somehow also make everything feel okay again? For me, that’s the neiman marcus chicken casserole.
I didn’t grow up on this dish. In fact, the first time I heard about it was in a group chat full of food-obsessed friends swapping “million dollar” favorites. One link led to another and suddenly I was reading about a creamy casserole that had once been served in the Neiman Marcus Zodiac Room. It combined everything comforting chicken, cream cheese, bacon, sour cream and baked it into one golden, crunchy-topped miracle.
So I made it. Then I made it again. And again.
Now, it’s my secret weapon when I need to impress with zero stress. Because this dish doesn’t just deliver on flavor, it delivers emotion. Warmth. Familiarity. That feeling of, “Oh yes, I’m having seconds.”
The Simple Secret Behind the “Million Dollar” Title
So, what’s with the nickname? The neiman marcus million dollar chicken casserole is called that not because it’s expensive, but because it tastes like a luxury dish you’d find in a boutique cafe.
But the genius? It’s built with budget-friendly basics:
- Shredded chicken or rotisserie leftovers
- A can of cream of chicken soup
- A few dollops of sour cream
- Crispy bacon and slivered almonds
- And of course, crushed Ritz crackers for that buttery finish
This version nails the rich, nostalgic feel of the original, but takes just 10 minutes to prep and uses ingredients most of us have on hand.
Bonus Inspiration From Our Community
If you love cozy bakes like this, you’ll also want to check out our low calorie high protein breakfast idea for busy mornings, or treat yourself later with a warm slice of banana fig bread another Vermont-tested favorite straight from my oven.
Practical Application & Benefits
How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Step-by-Step
The beauty of the neiman marcus chicken casserole is how easy it is to assemble no roux, no complicated layering, and no obscure ingredients. Just dump, mix, bake, and serve.
Here’s how I do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, crumbled bacon, slivered almonds, and shredded Cheddar.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Top it off: Crush Ritz crackers (or buttery crackers of choice) and toss them with a few tablespoons of melted butter. Spread this golden topping across the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
That’s it. You’ve made the ultimate comfort food.
Can You Freeze It? Yes and Here’s How
One reason I keep this neiman marcus chicken casserole in my rotation is how well it freezes. To prep ahead, assemble everything except the cracker topping and freeze it tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Add topping before baking.
It’s perfect for new parents, friends in need, or meal-prep Sundays.
Nutritional Snapshot
While indulgent, this dish packs a lot of protein thanks to the chicken, almonds, and cheese. You can lighten it up with low-fat sour cream or reduced-fat cheese, or even sneak in some finely chopped spinach.
Why It Works for Every Table
Whether you’re feeding toddlers, teens, or grown-ups with picky palates, the neiman marcus chicken casserole satisfies. It’s creamy, savory, and just crunchy enough to feel like a treat.
Even better? It reheats like a dream. Serve with a simple green salad or roasted green beans for a full meal.
Advanced Tips & Future Considerations
Twist the Classic: Smart Substitutions & Flavor Upgrades
The base recipe for neiman marcus chicken casserole is gold, but if you’re feeling adventurous or just working with what’s in the fridge, try these proven upgrades:
- Swap cream cheese with garlic and herb Boursin for an aromatic layer.
- Add heat with a dash of hot sauce or diced green chilies.
- Go gluten-free by using GF crackers or topping with crushed pork rinds.
- Mix in greens like spinach or kale for hidden nutrition.
- Top with French fried onions instead of crackers for a Thanksgiving-style twist.
You’ll get the same craveable texture with a fresh, exciting spin.
Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Days
This casserole is a meal-prepper’s dream. Here’s how to build it into your week:
- Fridge Storage: Fully assembled (uncooked) casseroles last 2–3 days in the fridge.
- Freezer Strategy: Prep and freeze in aluminum pans with tight foil. Don’t bake it until the day you need it.
- Portion Freezing: Divide into single-serving silicone trays for lunch-ready portions.
Just don’t add the cracker topping until bake time, it’s best when crisp and fresh.
Serve It Like a Pro: Potluck, Holiday & Weeknight Vibes
Want this to steal the show at your next potluck or family gathering? Here’s how:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onion for color.
- Serve with a light salad and crusty bread for contrast.
- Add a side of our sautéed zucchini recipe for a bright, healthy balance.
Hosting a crowd? Double the recipe in a lasagna pan. Hosting yourself after a long day? Halve the batch and bake it in a square dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole made of?
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, bacon, almonds, shredded cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker topping. It’s creamy, savory, and has just the right crunch on top.
Is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole the same as Million Dollar Chicken Casserole?
They’re nearly identical! The neiman marcus million dollar chicken casserole is a popular variation of this dish. Both share the same rich texture and ingredient base, but the “Neiman Marcus” name ties it to the classic Southern dip that inspired it.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole fully, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. For best results, add the cracker topping right before baking to maintain crispness.
Does it freeze well?
Absolutely. Prepare it up to the topping, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed. You can even freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.
For more trendy recipes take a look to this facebook page.
What can I serve with it?
This rich casserole pairs well with light, fresh sides like:
- Roasted or steamed vegetables
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic green beans or sautéed zucchini
Try it with our easy sautéed zucchini recipe for a refreshing contrast.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 325°F until hot (about 20–25 minutes). For a quicker method, microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes. Add a drizzle of broth or splash of cream if it looks dry.
PrintNeiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Recipe – Creamy, Easy & Crowd-Pleasing
This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Inspired by the iconic Neiman Marcus dip, it’s layered with tender chicken, smooth cream cheese, savory bacon, and a buttery cracker topping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
4 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie or poached)
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup slivered almonds
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
4 tbsp butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, cream cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, almonds, and bacon. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread mixture evenly in prepared dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole.
5. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
6. Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
For a lighter version, use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
To freeze: Assemble casserole without topping, wrap well, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, add topping, then bake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: neiman marcus chicken casserole, chicken casserole, million dollar chicken casserole