Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a classic comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s all about tender chicken pieces, creamy sauce, and a crunchy, cheesy topping that comes together to make something really satisfying and familiar.
I love making this casserole when I want something easy but still special enough to share with family or friends. One tip I always follow is to make sure the topping gets a nice golden color—that little bit of crispiness makes every bite even better. It’s one of those dishes where you get creamy, cheesy, and crispy all at once.
My favorite way to enjoy this casserole is straight from the oven with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies. It’s the kind of dish that works for weeknight dinners but also feels nice enough for company. Whenever I make it, it reminds me of cozy gatherings and those times when a home-cooked meal just hits the spot perfectly.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is classic here. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken for ease. For a lighter option, consider skinless chicken thighs—they stay juicy and flavorful.
Pasta: Penne or macaroni works well. You could swap for fusilli or shells if that’s what you have. Just cooked al dente is key so the pasta doesn’t get mushy in the casserole.
Cream soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups add richness and depth. If you prefer homemade, try making a simple creamy sauce from milk, butter, flour, and sautéed mushrooms.
Sour cream & mayonnaise: These add creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt can be a great substitute if you want a lighter twist with a bit more protein.
Cheese & breadcrumbs: Sharp cheddar gives a nice punch of flavor, but you could use Monterey Jack or Colby if you want something milder. Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy crust; regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers also work well.
How Can You Get a Crispy Topping Without Burning?
Getting that perfect golden crust without burning means watching the oven carefully in the last minutes of baking. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter well—this helps them brown evenly.
- Spread the topping evenly over the casserole, don’t pile it too thick.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. If the top looks pale near the end, switch your oven to broil for 1-2 minutes to brown the topping quickly—just watch closely to prevent burning.
Let the casserole sit a bit after baking; it helps the topping crisp up even more as it cools slightly. This way, you get a topping that’s golden, crunchy, and delicious every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch casserole dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – helps you mix the chicken, pasta, and sauce smoothly.
- Small bowl – for combining breadcrumbs and melted butter evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – so you get the soup, sour cream, and seasonings just right.
- Colander – to drain the cooked pasta easily without mess.
- Oven mitts – for safely handling the hot casserole dish when taking it out of the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked turkey or ham for a twist, especially after holidays.
- Stir in cooked broccoli or spinach to add color and extra veggies.
- Use pepper jack cheese for a mild spicy kick that brightens the dish.
- Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for subtle warmth and depth.
Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 4 cups cooked penne pasta (or macaroni)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped green onions (scallions)
Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Seasonings & Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Total time is approximately 45 minutes: 10-15 minutes for preparation and 30-35 minutes for baking until golden and bubbly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta and Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, drain well, and set aside.
2. Mix the Casserole Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine both cream soups, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. Add cooked chicken, pasta, mushrooms, peas, and green onions. Mix well to blend all ingredients evenly.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter until coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
4. Bake and Serve:
Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the casserole is heated through. Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley or rosemary if you like, then serve warm.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking or shredding it. This will help prevent excess moisture and ensure even cooking in the casserole.
Can I Substitute the Cream Soups?
Absolutely! You can use homemade creamy mushroom and chicken sauces if preferred, or swap one of the soups for cream of celery or cream of broccoli for a different flavor twist. Just keep the same total amount to maintain the right consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 325°F until heated through to keep the topping crispy, or microwave individual portions covered to avoid drying out.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.