Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole
This easy and comforting Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole features tender shredded chicken in a creamy sauce, topped with a crunchy poppy seed and buttery cracker crust. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it combines simple pantry ingredients to deliver a deliciously creamy and crispy baked dish that’s both satisfying and versatile.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free crackers and soup)
Chicken
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
Creamy Base
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Topping
- 2 cups butter crackers (like Ritz), crushed
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- Prepare the Chicken: Cook the chicken breasts by boiling, baking, or using rotisserie chicken. Once cooked, shred the meat using two forks until tender and easy to mix.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, and garlic powder. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Sauce: Gently fold the shredded chicken into the creamy mixture, ensuring every piece is well coated to keep the casserole tender and juicy.
- Prepare the Topping: Crush the butter crackers finely and mix in the poppy seeds. Melt the butter and stir it into the cracker mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the cracker and poppy seed topping over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbling.
Notes
- Use warm shredded chicken to help the creamy sauce blend more smoothly.
- Don’t skip the poppy seeds; they add a memorable crunch and nutty flavor.
- Crush crackers evenly for a consistent, crisp topping.
- Allow the casserole to rest 5-10 minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Use a glass baking dish to ensure even cooking and to monitor bubbling edges.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: poppy seed chicken casserole, creamy chicken casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, family dinner, baked casserole