Description
Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a creamy, comforting American classic featuring tender chicken breast mixed with sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and poppy seeds, topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust. Perfect for a family dinner, this easy-to-make casserole bakes to golden perfection with a crispy topping and rich, flavorful filling.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30), crushed
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix chicken filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded or cubed chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, poppy seeds, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a creamy mixture.
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Evenly spread the chicken mixture into the dish, making sure it is level for consistent baking.
- Make cracker topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter and Parmesan cheese if using. Mix until the cracker crumbs are evenly coated with butter, creating a crumbly topping.
- Assemble casserole: Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture in the baking dish, covering the surface completely for a crisp, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cracker topping turns golden brown.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut and serve portions.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
- Add steamed broccoli or peas into the chicken mixture for added vegetables and nutrition.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream and use low-fat cream of chicken soup.
