How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: A Delicious Southern Classic

Neiman Marcus chicken casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food—rich, creamy, crunchy, and completely irresistible. This decadent dish has become a staple at potlucks, holiday dinners, and weeknight family meals, earning its place in kitchens across America. But what exactly makes this casserole so special? In this article, we’ll dive into the iconic recipe, uncover its luxurious origins, and show you how to make Neiman Marcus chicken casserole step-by-step at home.

Whether you’re craving something cozy or preparing to impress a crowd, this million-dollar recipe delivers flavor, texture, and nostalgia in every bite.

This blog post is proudly presented by CookingFlash.com, where we share viral, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing recipes for busy home cooks who love good food and good stories. Our passion for soul-warming dishes like this runs deep—and we’re excited to share every creamy, cheesy, bacon-loaded detail with you.

Don’t miss our other casserole classic: Dolly’s Cozy Chicken Noodle Casserole

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

The Story Behind Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

How Did Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Get Its Name?

Despite its upscale name, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole isn’t served in the fine dining section of a luxury store. Its origins are surprisingly humble. The dish draws inspiration from a famous chicken salad that was once featured at the Zodiac Room, a beloved café inside Neiman Marcus in Dallas, Texas. Home cooks, always eager to recreate the comforting flavors they loved, began adapting it into a baked casserole packed with richness and Southern flair. Over time, it evolved from salad to full-blown oven magic—loaded with shredded chicken, cheese, bacon, and a golden cracker topping.

Why Is It Called “Million Dollar” Casserole?

The alternate name, Million Dollar Chicken Casserole, isn’t about the price—it’s about the taste. Each bite delivers a silky blend of creamy soup and sour cream, balanced with sharp cheddar, crunchy almonds, and buttery crackers. It’s indulgent, over-the-top in the best way possible, and feels like something you’d find on a five-star Southern dinner table. That wow factor is exactly why it earned the million-dollar nickname.

From Potluck Favorite to Viral Recipe

What started as a twist on a department store classic quickly became a Southern staple. Its simplicity, make-ahead convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavor made it perfect for everything from family dinners to church gatherings. Today, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole has gone viral across recipe blogs and cooking groups—not just for its name, but for its unbeatable flavor and nostalgic comfort.

Print

Ingredients That Make It Irresistible

What Goes Into Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?

The secret to the rich, savory flavor of Neiman Marcus chicken casserole lies in a handful of classic ingredients that blend into one unforgettable dish. Each component brings its own texture and taste, creating a casserole that’s creamy in the center, crispy on top, and packed with layers of flavor.

Here’s a full breakdown of what you’ll need:

Ingredient	Amount	What It Does
Cooked, shredded chicken	4 cups	Juicy, protein-rich base
Cream of chicken soup	1 can (10.5 oz)	Adds savory depth and a smooth texture
Sour cream	1 cup	Brings creaminess and slight tang
Cheddar cheese, shredded	2 cups	Melts beautifully, adds sharp cheesy flavor
Green onions	½ cup, sliced	Fresh bite and color contrast
Slivered almonds	½ cup	Crunch and a nutty twist
Bacon, cooked & crumbled	6 slices	Smoky, salty crunch in every bite
Hot sauce (like Tabasco)	1½ teaspoons or to taste	Optional heat and zing
Ritz-style buttery crackers	1 sleeve, crushed	Golden, buttery crunch on top
Butter, melted	½ cup	Holds the topping together for crispiness

Tasty Twists and Variations

While the original is mouthwatering on its own, this recipe invites creativity. You can:

• Swap out the soup for cream of mushroom or celery to mix up the flavor profile.
• Add in chopped broccoli, peas, or spinach for a veggie boost.
• Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack if you want to turn up the spice.
• Try panko breadcrumbs instead of crackers for a lighter topping.

With just a few tweaks, your Neiman Marcus chicken casserole becomes a totally personalized dish—while still delivering all that cozy, creamy satisfaction.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Bake the Perfect Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

If you’re ready to serve up comfort on a plate, this is where the magic begins. Making Neiman Marcus chicken casserole is incredibly simple—and the results? Absolutely mouthwatering. This creamy, crunchy dish bakes up beautifully and requires just a handful of easy-to-follow steps. Let’s get cooking.

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that heats up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. A well-prepped dish ensures nothing sticks and everything bakes evenly.

Step 2: Combine the Casserole Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the core ingredients:

• Cooked shredded chicken
• Cream of chicken soup
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onions (sliced)
• Crispy bacon bits
• Slivered almonds
• A few splashes of hot sauce (optional, but flavorful)

Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly blended into a creamy, rich base. This is the heart of your Neiman Marcus chicken casserole—make sure it’s smooth and well-mixed.

Step 3: Layer the Dish

Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out with a spoon or spatula so it covers the bottom evenly. Press it gently to create a firm, uniform layer that will hold up beautifully once baked.

Step 4: Add the Buttery Cracker Topping

Now it’s time for that signature crunch. In a smaller bowl, mix crushed buttery crackers with melted butter until well-coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole filling, making sure every corner gets covered. This topping is what gives the casserole its crave-worthy golden crunch.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling

Place your dish in the center of the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. It’s done when the top is golden and crispy and the edges are bubbling with cheesy goodness. Keep an eye on the topping in the final 5 minutes so it doesn’t over-brown.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. This allows the layers to settle and makes slicing easier. Serve it warm and enjoy the creamy texture, crispy topping, and layers of flavor in every bite.

Just like that, you’ve got a hot, cheesy, bacon-loaded Neiman Marcus chicken casserole on your table—perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Want more cozy dishes like this? Check out: Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Ranch Sauce

Freezing, Storing, and Reheating Tips

Make It Now, Enjoy It Later—Yes, You Can Freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

One reason home cooks keep coming back to Neiman Marcus chicken casserole is that it’s not just tasty—it’s also freezer-friendly. Whether you’re batch cooking or saving leftovers, this casserole keeps its flavor and texture surprisingly well.

Here’s how to store and reheat it without losing that cheesy, crunchy goodness.

Want to Freeze It Before Baking?

If you’re prepping this dish ahead of time, go ahead and assemble the filling. Just hold off on the cracker topping for now. Here’s what to do:

• Spread the mixed filling into your casserole dish
• Skip the topping until you’re ready to bake
• Wrap the entire dish tightly with plastic wrap, then foil
• Label and freeze for up to 3 months

When you’re ready to cook, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, top it with buttered crackers, and bake as directed.

Freezing After It’s Been Cooked

Leftovers? No problem. Here’s how to keep them tasting fresh:

• Cool the baked casserole completely
• Slice into individual portions or wrap the full dish
• Store in airtight freezer containers
• Freeze for up to 2 months

This is a great way to have quick, satisfying meals ready for busy nights.

Short-Term Storage: Keep It in the Fridge

If you plan to eat it within a few days, store your Neiman Marcus chicken casserole in the refrigerator:

• Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap
• Or transfer to a sealed container
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days

Best Ways to Reheat (And Keep It Crispy)

Want that top layer to stay crispy and golden? Avoid the microwave when possible. Here’s what we recommend:

• From fridge: Reheat uncovered at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes
• From freezer (unbaked): Thaw in the fridge, add topping, and bake at 375°F for 45–50 minutes
• From freezer (already baked): Thaw overnight, reheat covered at 350°F for about 30 minutes, then uncover for the last 5 minutes to re-crisp

Meal Prep Friendly for Busy Schedules

This casserole is perfect for planning ahead. You can prep it up to 2 days in advance, store it in the fridge (unbaked), and bake it fresh when you’re ready. Just don’t forget to add the buttery topping right before it goes into the oven for that golden crunch.

Looking for more meal-prep wins? Check out this one-dish wonder: Baked Caesar Chicken in Parmesan Cream ,Some know it as Million Dollar Chicken—like this Indulgent Million Dollar Chicken variation packed with creamy richness.

Why This Casserole Works (Flavor + Texture Breakdown)

Why Is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole So Addictive?

There’s a reason why Neiman Marcus chicken casserole has stood the test of time—it nails that perfect balance between comforting richness and satisfying texture. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience. Let’s dig into why this casserole hits so many high notes.

Creamy, But Not Heavy

The creamy base of this casserole—thanks to sour cream and cream of chicken soup—creates a luscious texture without overwhelming your palate. It’s smooth, slightly tangy, and coats the chicken beautifully, giving each bite that melt-in-your-mouth feel without being too rich or greasy.

Savory Meets Crunchy

One of the biggest reasons this dish stands out is the contrast in textures. You get juicy, shredded chicken baked into a creamy filling—then you hit that buttery, golden cracker topping. It’s the perfect crunch on top of all that soft, savory comfort. Every forkful delivers a pop of texture that keeps your taste buds coming back.

Layered Flavor in Every Bite

This isn’t your average casserole. With smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, nutty slivered almonds, and a kick of hot sauce, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole doesn’t just taste good—it’s bold. Every ingredient brings something unique to the table, and together they create a layered flavor profile that feels both nostalgic and elevated.

Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions

From holiday gatherings to casual weeknight dinners, this casserole adapts to every setting. It’s easy to make ahead, reheat, freeze, and serve without losing flavor. Plus, it’s hearty enough to be the main dish yet flexible enough to pair with simple sides like green beans, tossed salad, or roasted veggies.

Comfort Food with Personality

At its core, this dish is about comfort—but not the boring kind. It’s creamy, crunchy, cheesy, salty, and just a little spicy if you like it that way. It feels familiar but delivers enough flavor to feel special every time you serve it.

Want another cozy recipe that nails flavor and simplicity? Check out: Garlicky Honey Glazed Beef Cubes

Customizing Your Casserole – Add-Ins and Substitutions

Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole Your Own

While the classic Neiman Marcus chicken casserole is already a crowd favorite, one of its biggest strengths is its flexibility. With just a few tweaks, you can adjust the flavor, texture, or ingredients to fit your dietary needs, spice tolerance, or simply what’s already in your fridge.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

Don’t have everything on the list? No problem. Here are some simple substitutes that still deliver amazing flavor:

• Cream of Chicken Soup → Try cream of mushroom or cream of celery for an earthier or lighter twist
• Sour Cream → Use Greek yogurt for a protein boost and similar tang
• Cheddar Cheese → Swap for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend for a milder melt
• Ritz Crackers → Replace with panko breadcrumbs, buttered cornflakes, or crushed potato chips for crunch
• Bacon → Use turkey bacon, smoked sausage bits, or vegetarian bacon crumbles

These swaps are great for adjusting flavor or accommodating dietary preferences without losing the heart of the dish.

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

Want to bulk it up or sneak in some extra nutrition? These mix-ins work beautifully in Neiman Marcus chicken casserole:

• Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or even frozen peas for color and balance
• Spice: Kick it up a notch with jalapeño slices, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder
• Herbs: Toss in chopped parsley, chives, or thyme to brighten things up
• Protein Boost: Add extra shredded rotisserie chicken or even cooked quinoa to make it more filling

Just be sure not to overload the mixture—about 1 to 1½ cups of extra ingredients is the sweet spot.

Make It Gluten-Free or Low-Carb

Need to accommodate special diets? Here’s how:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free condensed soup and swap the crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal
• Low-Carb/Keto: Ditch the crackers and top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour + cheese for a golden crust

With a few smart tweaks, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole becomes just as enjoyable for gluten-free or carb-conscious eaters.

Small Changes, Big Flavor

The beauty of this recipe is how forgiving it is. You can experiment without fear—just stick to the core creamy base and shredded chicken, and the rest is up to you. Whether you’re going classic, spicy, veggie-packed, or dairy-free, there’s a version that will suit your table.

Need inspiration for a low-carb option? Try our: Crispy Golden Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Mushroom Sauce

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole for a Complete Meal

While Neiman Marcus chicken casserole is satisfying all by itself, pairing it with the right sides can turn a simple dinner into a full-on feast. Whether you’re feeding family on a busy weeknight or hosting a casual get-together, the right side dishes and drinks can elevate every bite.

1. Add Brightness with a Fresh Salad

A creamy casserole needs something crisp and refreshing on the side to keep your meal feeling balanced. Here are a few salad ideas that won’t overpower the main course:

• Spring mix with citrus vinaigrette
• Spinach salad with apples, walnuts, and feta
• Chopped cucumber and tomato salad with olive oil and herbs
• Shaved Brussels sprout slaw for crunch and bite

Light and fresh, these salads cut through the richness and give your plate a pop of color and texture.

2. Serve Up Simple Vegetable Sides

Roasted or steamed veggies make a smart and easy match for Neiman Marcus chicken casserole. They bring flavor and nutrients without weighing down the plate.

Try these veggie winners:

Vegetable	Prep Idea
Carrots	Roasted with thyme and honey drizzle
Green beans	Steamed and tossed with lemon zest
Broccoli	Lightly roasted with garlic and olive oil
Cauliflower	Mashed with Parmesan for a low-carb twist

You can also mix and match depending on the season and what’s in your fridge.

3. Choose Bread Wisely

While the casserole is already rich and filling, a small serving of bread can be a comforting complement. Just enough to scoop up that creamy sauce:

• Toasted baguette slices
• Soft rolls with butter
• Whole grain toast for a fiber-friendly option
• Parmesan flatbread for a little extra flavor

Stick to smaller portions so the meal doesn’t become too heavy.

4. Pair It with Refreshing Drinks

To balance the creaminess of the casserole, go with something light and crisp to drink:

• Sparkling water with lemon or lime
• Unsweetened iced tea with a mint sprig
• Light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Riesling
• Cranberry spritzer for a sweet-tart non-alcoholic option

Cool drinks help refresh your palate between creamy bites.

5. Finish with a Simple Dessert

After enjoying a rich main dish like Neiman Marcus chicken casserole, a light dessert is the perfect closer. You don’t need anything heavy—just something sweet and simple:

• Fruit salad with a touch of honey
• Mini lemon cupcakes
• Berry sorbet
• Ginger cookies for a cozy touch

These finishes won’t compete with your main dish and help round out the meal.

Complete the Experience

When paired with clean, vibrant sides, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole becomes more than just dinner—it becomes a well-balanced, satisfying experience. With just a few thoughtful additions, you’ll turn a comfort food classic into a memorable meal that’s as enjoyable to serve as it is to eat.

Check out another comfort food hit to pair or rotate in your weekly menu: Creamy Ranch Chicken Wraps

Nutritional Profile and Portion Guidelines

Is Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole a Balanced Meal?

Let’s be real—Neiman Marcus chicken casserole isn’t exactly diet food. It’s a rich, indulgent comfort dish built on creamy textures, gooey cheese, and crispy, buttery topping. But it also offers solid protein and can absolutely fit into a balanced meal when served smartly.

Below is a general overview of what you’re getting per serving (based on a 9×13-inch casserole cut into 8 portions):

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	430–500 kcal
Protein	26–30g
Total Fat	28–32g
Saturated Fat	12–14g
Carbohydrates	15–20g
Fiber	1–2g
Sugars	2–3g
Sodium	800–950mg

Note: Exact values may vary depending on specific brands, ingredient substitutions, and added extras like hot sauce or veggies.

Serving Size Recommendations

This casserole is rich, so a little goes a long way. Here’s how to portion it wisely:

• For adults: A standard portion is about 1/8 of the full casserole
• For kids: Serve a half portion, paired with fresh veggies or fruit
• As part of a larger meal: Cut smaller portions (1/10 or 1/12) and serve alongside salad or soup

If you’re planning for a gathering or meal prep, you can easily double the recipe and bake in two pans. It holds up great for leftovers too.

Tips for a Healthier Version (If You Want One)

Want to enjoy this dish with a lighter nutritional load? Here are a few smart swaps:

• Use light sour cream or plain Greek yogurt instead
• Swap reduced-fat cheese instead of full-fat
• Replace Ritz crackers with whole grain panko
• Cut back on bacon or use turkey bacon
• Add in steamed veggies like spinach, cauliflower, or broccoli for fiber and volume

These small tweaks can reduce overall fat and calories while still keeping the dish flavorful and comforting.

Great for Meal Prep and Macros

Thanks to its high protein content and make-ahead convenience, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole works well for meal prep. Just portion it into containers, pair with veggies or salad, and refrigerate for easy lunches throughout the week.

Want more protein-packed comfort food ideas? Don’t miss this delicious option: Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Ranch Sauce

The Ultimate Comfort Dish, Made Simple

When it comes to cozy, crowd-pleasing meals, Neiman Marcus chicken casserole delivers every single time. It’s rich without being complicated, comforting without feeling heavy, and flexible enough to suit just about any table. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or customize it with your own twists, this dish brings people together through flavor and nostalgia.

From its creamy filling to its buttery, golden topping, this casserole hits all the right notes—savory, satisfying, and just a little indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that reminds you why simple ingredients, when combined with care, can become something extraordinary.

So the next time you’re craving real comfort food with a little Southern flair, whip up this casserole, serve it hot, and enjoy every last cheesy, crunchy, soul-warming bite.

Looking for more comfort food you can count on? Don’t miss this savory classic: Chicken Mushroom Skillet with Creamy Asiago Sauce