🧑🍳 Ingredients
For the casserole:
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced water chestnuts, drained
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the topping:
- 1 sleeve of Ritz crackers (about 36 crackers), crushed
- 1/4 cup (½ stick) melted butter
🥣 Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Mix the casserole ingredients – In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of mushroom soup, water chestnuts, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Transfer to baking dish – Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
Make the topping – In a small bowl, mix crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter until combined.
Top the casserole – Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake – Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
Cool slightly and serve – Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.
Tips for Customizing Your Casserole
Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some great variations:
- Make it healthier – Use low-fat soup, cheese, and mayo for a lighter version.
- Add veggies – Mix in chopped broccoli, carrots, or celery for extra texture and nutrition.
- Spice it up – Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Go gourmet – Substitute water chestnuts with water-packed bamboo shoots or watercress.
- Use different crackers – If you don’t have Ritz, try saltines or buttery round crackers.
What to Serve With Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
This casserole is a standalone comfort dish , but here are some great sides to pair with it:
- Steamed green beans or asparagus
- A crisp green salad with light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted or mashed potatoes
- Cornbread or corn muffins
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking to keep it crisp.
❓ Can I freeze Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole?
Yes! Wrap it tightly and freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
❓ Is there a dairy-free version?
Yes! Use vegan cheese, dairy-free soup, and coconut-based mayonnaise for a dairy-free alternative.
❓ Can I use a different soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery can be used in place of mushroom soup if preferred.
Final Thoughts
The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a timeless classic that brings back memories of family dinners, holiday gatherings, and old-school comfort food at its finest.
It’s easy to make , incredibly flavorful , and always a crowd-pleaser — whether you're serving it at a potluck, dinner party, or cozy night in.
So go ahead — whip up a batch, grab a fork, and enjoy a taste of luxury from the comfort of your own home.