Poppy Seed Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Poppy Seed Chicken is a comforting casserole dish made with tender chicken in a creamy, flavorful sauce, topped with a buttery cracker crust and sprinkled with poppy seeds. It’s a family-favorite dinner that’s easy to prepare and perfect for potlucks, weeknight meals, or gatherings. The creamy texture combined with the crunchy topping makes it irresistibly delicious.

ingredients

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

cooked, shredded chicken
sour cream
condensed cream of chicken soup
butter
Ritz or buttery round crackers
poppy seeds
salt
pepper
garlic powder (optional)
grated cheese (optional for a cheesy twist)

directions

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

In a large bowl, mix the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until smooth.

Add the shredded chicken to the mixture and stir until well combined.

Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Crush the crackers in a zip-top bag or food processor, then mix them with melted butter until evenly coated.

Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken layer.

Top with poppy seeds, distributing them evenly across the casserole.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Add cooked rice or pasta to make it a one-dish meal.
Stir in steamed broccoli or peas for added vegetables.
Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.
Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery for a different flavor.
Top with shredded cheese before adding the cracker crumbs for a cheesy finish.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great and saves time.

Do I have to use poppy seeds?

No, they add texture and a subtle flavor, but the dish is still delicious without them.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I use low-fat ingredients?

Yes, low-fat sour cream and soup can be used, though the texture may be slightly lighter.

What can I serve with Poppy Seed Chicken?

It pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad.

Can I use homemade soup instead of canned?

Absolutely, homemade cream soups work just as well and can be healthier.

How do I keep the topping from getting soggy?

Bake uncovered to ensure the topping stays crisp.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it’s great for feeding a crowd or saving extras for another meal.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Definitely—its creamy texture and mild flavor make it a hit with kids.

What type of crackers should I use?

Ritz or similar buttery round crackers work best for the perfect crunchy topping.

Conclusion

Poppy Seed Chicken is a cozy, classic casserole that brings together creamy, savory flavors with a crunchy, buttery topping. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for guests, it’s a dependable, delicious option that everyone will love. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the table!

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