Poppy Seed Chicken Recipe

Looking for a quick and easy dinner idea? This Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish topped with a buttery cracker crust that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings. Made with tender chicken, sour cream, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe is bursting with flavor. The poppy seeds add a subtle nutty taste, while the golden, crunchy topping takes it to the next level. Serve it with rice, noodles, or your favorite veggies for a hearty meal the whole family will love.

A comforting classic, Poppy Seed Chicken is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery cracker crust. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty addition to any potluck.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped (see Notes)
• 8 ounces sour cream (see Notes)
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
• 1 ½ cups butter crackers, crushed (like Ritz crackers)
• ¼ cup melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 baking dish or casserole dish for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, Parmesan cheese, and poppy seeds. Stir until well mixed, then spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Make the Cracker Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed butter crackers and melted butter. Stir until the crackers are evenly coated.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Sprinkle the cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture.
5. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges.
6. Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with your favorite sides!

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Tips

• Cooked Chicken Shortcut: Use a rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken for convenience.
• Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
• Cracker Substitutes: If you don’t have butter crackers, use crushed pretzels, panko breadcrumbs, or gluten-free crackers for a twist.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Cheese Swap: Substitute Parmesan with cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Soup Substitute: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor.
• Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms to make it a complete one-dish meal.

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FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of pre-cooked?
Yes, simply cook and shred your chicken beforehand. Poaching or baking works best for tender results.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without the cracker topping, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Add the cracker topping before baking.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free crackers and ensure the cream of chicken soup is also gluten-free.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve Poppy Seed Chicken over steamed white rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
• Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal.
• Add a slice of warm bread or a dinner roll for soaking up the creamy sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Comes together in under 30 minutes for effortless comfort food.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal trains.
• Customizable: Adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Classic Comfort Food: Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly crunchy on top, this dish hits all the right notes!