This casserole is the ultimate comfort food: creamy, savory, and topped with a golden, crunchy cracker crust. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience. Plus, it can be prepped ahead and baked when needed, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The poppy seeds add a subtle nutty flavor and a touch of visual interest that sets it apart.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
cooked chicken (shredded or cubed) sour cream cream of chicken soup butter Ritz crackers or similar buttery crackers, crushed poppy seeds salt pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Fold in the cooked chicken until evenly coated in the sauce.
Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter and poppy seeds. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 6 servings. Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
Use different soup: Swap cream of chicken with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a different flavor.
Add veggies: Mix in cooked broccoli, peas, or mixed vegetables for extra nutrition.
Cheesy version: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese into the sauce for added richness.
Low-carb option: Replace the cracker topping with almond flour mixed with butter.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until heated through. For best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15–20 minutes. You can also freeze the casserole before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole up to one day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking for best texture.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time on prep.
What kind of crackers should I use?
Buttery crackers like Ritz are traditional, but you can use any similar variety.
Can I make this without poppy seeds?
Yes, you can leave out the poppy seeds if you prefer. The dish will still taste delicious.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or a mixture of cream cheese and a splash of milk as a substitute.
Can I use homemade cream of chicken soup?
Yes, homemade versions work well if you prefer to avoid canned soup.
What should I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze individual portions or the whole casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
How do I keep the topping crispy when reheating?
Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave to maintain a crisp topping.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free crackers and a gluten-free cream soup to adapt the recipe.
Conclusion
Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and crunchy favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple to prepare, endlessly customizable, and a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this comforting classic never disappoints.
Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a creamy and comforting Southern classic made with tender chicken, a rich sauce, and a buttery cracker topping. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Category:Main Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Southern
Diet:Low Lactose
Ingredients
4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 sleeve (about 30) Ritz crackers or similar buttery crackers, crushed
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 tbsp poppy seeds
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Fold in the cooked chicken until evenly coated in the sauce.
Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
In a separate bowl, combine crushed crackers with melted butter and poppy seeds. Stir until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the chicken mixture.
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Let sit for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.Add cooked vegetables for extra nutrition.Top with shredded cheese for a richer dish.For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free crackers and soup.Reheat in the oven to keep the topping crispy.
