Poppy Seed Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Poppy Seed Chicken is a creamy, comforting casserole that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Tender chicken is baked in a rich, sour cream sauce and topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker topping and poppy seeds. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

cooked chicken (shredded or cubed)sour creamcream of chicken soup (canned or homemade)butter (melted)Ritz crackers (crushed)poppy seedssaltblack pepperonion powder (optional)garlic powder (optional)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, mix sour cream, cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings.

Fold in the cooked chicken until fully coated.

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter and poppy seeds.

Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly with a golden topping.

Let cool slightly before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Add cooked rice or egg noodles to the chicken mixture for a heartier dish.
Mix in frozen peas or steamed broccoli for added veggies.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Top with shredded cheese for a melty finish under the crackers.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
To keep the topping crispy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Freeze assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months; thaw before baking.

FAQs

Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, though freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken gives better flavor and texture.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Do I have to use Ritz crackers?
No, any buttery cracker or even panko breadcrumbs work well.

What can I serve it with?
Serve over rice, noodles, or with a side of green beans or salad.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild, creamy, and very appealing to picky eaters.

Can I use homemade soup instead of canned?
Yes, use a homemade cream of chicken or mushroom soup for a fresher taste.

What does the poppy seed add?
A subtle crunch and nutty flavor that balances the creamy filling.

Can I leave out the poppy seeds?
Yes, but they’re traditional and add a nice texture.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish or two pans.

Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, it’s great for freezing. Assemble ahead and bake when needed.

Conclusion

Poppy Seed Chicken is a creamy, crunchy classic that delivers comforting flavor in every bite. With just a few pantry staples, this easy casserole comes together quickly and satisfies everyone at the table. Whether for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, it’s always a winner.

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