Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Vintage Comfort Food Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a delightful dish that brings a taste of nostalgia to your dining table. This classic comfort food recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you are hosting a family dinner or just looking for a quick meal, this casserole checks all the boxes. Plus, it combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and crunchy toppings for a fantastic flavor and texture that everyone will love.

How to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 lbs cooked chicken breast (shredded (900g))
• 2 cups whole milk (480ml)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115g, divided)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (60g)
• 2 cups yellow cheddar cheese (225g, shredded)
• 1.5 cups buttery crackers (150g, crushed (e.g., Ritz))
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds (50g)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley (15g, finely chopped)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (5g)
• 1 tsp onion powder (5g)

Directions

1. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
   • Gradually add the milk, whisking continually to avoid lumps.
   • Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Remove from heat and stir in half of the cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder until melted and smooth.

2. Assembly:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sauce, and chopped parsley. Mix well.
   • Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
   • Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, crushed crackers, sliced almonds, and the rest of the melted butter.

3. Baking:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.

How to Serve Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

This casserole can be served hot straight from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra touch, garnish with some fresh parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Store Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

If you have leftovers, you can easily store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed throughout.

Tips to Make Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option since it’s already cooked and saves time.
• Feel free to add some veggies like frozen peas or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
• If you want a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or pepper jack cheese to the mix.

Variation

To give this dish a twist, try using different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile. You can also substitute the butter crackers with seasoned breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use raw chicken; just cook it before shredding, or you can sauté it with some seasoning to add more flavor.

2. Is there a gluten-free version?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and gluten-free crackers as a substitute.

3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if starting from cold.

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