Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole

 

In the realm of comforting and slightly indulgent dishes, the Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole reigns supreme. Despite its upscale-sounding name, this casserole is surprisingly straightforward to make, delivering a symphony of creamy textures, savory chicken, salty bacon, and a delightful crunch of almonds. It's the kind of dish that feels both special and deeply satisfying, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.

While the exact origins of the name remain a bit of a culinary mystery (some say it was a recipe shared at a Neiman Marcus event, others whisper of a hefty price tag attached to a version of it), its popularity is undeniable. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the harmonious blend of its core ingredients.

Ready to experience this legendary comfort food? Let's dive into the steps to create your very own Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.

Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 30-35 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2-3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully!)
• 1 pound bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup slivered almonds  

Equipment:

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Crisp the Bacon: If you haven't already, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon.
3. Combine the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise and the condensed cream of chicken soup. Stir until well combined and smooth.
4. Incorporate the Savory Elements: Add the shredded or diced cooked chicken, the crumbled bacon (reserve a small amount for topping, if desired), the shredded cheddar cheese, and the chopped green onions to the mayonnaise mixture. Stir gently until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out in an even layer.
6. Add the Almond Crunch: Sprinkle the slivered almonds evenly over the top of the casserole. If you reserved some crumbled bacon, you can sprinkle that over the almonds for extra flavor and visual appeal.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is lightly golden brown.
8. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set slightly.  

Serving Suggestions:

The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with:

• A simple side salad
• Steamed green beans or broccoli
• Garlic bread or rolls
• Rice or mashed potatoes (if you want an even heartier meal)

Tips and Variations:

• Use Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Colby Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Add Vegetables: You can incorporate cooked vegetables like chopped mushrooms, peas, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and texture. Sauté them before adding them to the casserole mixture.
• Spice it Up: A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a little heat to the casserole.
• Make it Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
• Breadcrumb Topping: For an extra crispy topping, you can sprinkle a mixture of breadcrumbs and melted butter over the almonds.

The Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the most satisfying dishes are the ones that combine familiar flavors in a comforting and easy-to-prepare way. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in a truly legendary casserole experience! Enjoy!