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Close up shot of Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole in a white dish, showing thick creamy white sauce and bubbly cheddar cheese. (Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole)

Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole: The Ultimate Vintage Comfort Food Recipe

This legendary Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole features tender shredded chicken in a thick white cheese sauce, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker and toasted almond crust. A sophisticated, golden-brown vintage classic perfect for elegant luncheons.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 White Ceramic Baking Dish Essential for even heat and visual presentation.
  • 1 Heavy-bottomed saucepan For preparing the white cheese sauce.

Instructions
 

Prepare the Sauce
  1. Melt 4 tbsp (60g) of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour and seasonings, cooking for 2 minutes over medium heat.
  2. Slowly whisk in the milk until the sauce is thick and creamy. Stir in 1 cup of the yellow cheddar until melted.
Assembly & Baking
  1. Combine shredded chicken with the white sauce. Transfer to a white ceramic baking dish.
  2. Top with remaining cheddar. Toss crushed crackers and almonds with melted butter and spread over the cheese layer.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken for a faster prep time.
For a crunchier topping, lightly toast the almonds in a dry pan before mixing with the crackers.
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