Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes — use a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend.

Do these freeze well?

Yes — freeze after cooling and thaw in the refrigerator.

You can reduce the brown sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture.

Can I use chicken thighs?

Yes — thighs stay juicier and add richer flavor.

Can I grill the chicken?

Absolutely. Grilling adds smoky Mediterranean flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes — skip feta and tzatziki or use dairy-free versions.

Can I substitute the rice?

Yes — quinoa, orzo, couscous, or mixed greens all work well.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes — store ingredients separately and assemble when serving.

Is blackened tuna spicy?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat. Reduce the cayenne pepper or jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I grill the tuna instead?

Yes. Grill over high heat for the same amount of time, making sure the grates are well-oiled.

What type of tuna should I use?

Ahi (yellowfin) or sushi-grade tuna works best for searing.

Can I make the mango salsa ahead of time?

Yes. The mango salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Dirty rice has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun dirty rice ahead of time?

Yes. Store dirty rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze Cajun dirty rice?

Yes. Cajun dirty rice freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

What meat can I substitute for beef?

Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a lighter alternative to ground beef.

Is Cajun cornbread spicy?

Cajun cornbread has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the jalapeño or cayenne pepper.

Can I make Cajun cornbread ahead of time?

Yes. Cajun cornbread can be baked up to one day ahead and reheated gently before serving.

Can I freeze Cajun cornbread?

Yes. Wrap the cornbread tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Can I make Cajun cornbread without cheese?

Yes. You can omit the cheese for a dairy-light version without affecting the texture.

Gumbo is mildly spicy. You can adjust the heat by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning.

Can I make chicken and sausage gumbo ahead of time?

Yes. Gumbo tastes even better the next day and keeps well in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can I freeze chicken and sausage gumbo?

Yes. Gumbo freezes well for up to three months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Do I have to use okra in gumbo?

No. Okra helps thicken gumbo, but you can omit it or use filé powder if preferred.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes spicy?

They have a mild-to-moderate heat. You can adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning.

Can I make Cajun roasted potatoes ahead of time?

They are best served fresh, but leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Can I use red or russet potatoes?

Yes. Just cut the potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure even roasting.

Are Cajun roasted potatoes vegan?

Yes. This recipe is naturally dairy-free and vegan as written.

Is Cajun shrimp & grits spicy?

Cajun shrimp and grits has a mild-to-moderate heat. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to make it milder.

Can I make Cajun shrimp and grits ahead of time?

The shrimp are best cooked fresh, but the grits can be made ahead and reheated gently with a splash of broth or milk.

Can I use instant grits?

Yes, but stone-ground grits provide the best flavor and creamiest texture.

Can I substitute milk for cream?

Yes, whole milk can be used, though the grits will be slightly less rich.

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole (Cheesy, Crunchy & Totally Delicious!)

Sarah Smith
Oct 30, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 25, 2025

Golden chicken casserole with a breadcrumb crust in a white dish, a section missing reveals creamy filling. Parsley garnish and neutral backdrop.

If comfort food had a luxury version, it would be this Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole — rich, creamy, and irresistibly comforting. This Southern-inspired classic brings together tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and a golden Ritz cracker topping that adds the perfect crunch. It’s easy to make, elegant enough for guests, yet cozy enough for a weeknight family dinner.

I first made this recipe for a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite. The balance of creamy chicken and buttery topping had everyone asking for seconds — and the recipe! It’s one of those timeless dishes that always feels like home, no matter the occasion. This cozy dish pairs beautifully with Cheesy Potato Casserole or a side of Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese. For a sweet and savory twist, serve alongside Honey Garlic Chicken.

Recipe Card

Serving Size: 6 servings Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
1 cup sour cream
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crushed
½ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For Serving:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Side salad or steamed green beans

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Combine the filling: In a large bowl, mix the shredded chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Prepare the topping: In a separate bowl, stir together crushed Ritz crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Assemble the casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Garnish and serve: Let cool slightly, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken for quick prep and maximum flavor.
Add a pop of color: Mix in a cup of frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach for extra texture and nutrition.
Cheese upgrade: Try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for an even creamier finish.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is the perfect blend of rich, creamy comfort and easy elegance — exactly what every home cook needs in their recipe collection. Serve it with a fresh salad or green beans for a balanced meal that feels indulgent yet effortless.

FAQ

Q: What is Neiman Marcus casserole?

It’s a rich, creamy casserole inspired by the famous Neiman Marcus dip, featuring bacon, cheese, creamy sauce, and hearty potatoes or pasta (depending on variation).

Q: Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake right before serving.

Q: What cheese works best for this dish?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites melt beautifully and add rich flavor.

Q: Can I make this casserole spicy?

Definitely, add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or pepper jack cheese for heat.

Q: Can I freeze Neiman Marcus casserole?

Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake until hot and bubbly.