Poppy Seed Chicken – This creamy, hearty casserole combines tender chicken, a sauce, and a crispy topping with the nutty flavor of poppy seeds, creating a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
What is Poppy Seed Chicken?
Poppy Seed Chicken is a baked casserole dish made with cooked chicken in a creamy, flavorful sauce, topped with buttery crushed crackers and poppy seeds. Its rich and satisfying taste comes from a combination of ingredients like sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and a buttery topping, making it the epitome of comfort food.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Poppy Seed Chicken
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option that adds a depth of flavor to your casserole. Alternatively, you can poach, bake, or grill your chicken beforehand.
- Don’t Skip the Poppy Seeds: While small, poppy seeds add a subtle nuttiness and texture that elevate this dish. They’re the star ingredient, so don’t leave them out!
- Get Creative with Crackers: Ritz crackers are the go-to choice for the topping, but you can also use crushed saltines, panko breadcrumbs, or even seasoned stuffing mix for a twist.
- Sauce: Add a splash of chicken broth to thin out the sauce if it feels too thick. You can also mix in garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of paprika for extra flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the bake time if baking straight from the fridge.
Variations of Poppy Seed Chicken
- Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt and use low-fat cream of chicken soup for a lighter take. Opt for whole-grain crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a healthier topping.
- Mix shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan into the sauce for a cheesy twist.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or peas to the casserole for a nutrient boost.
- Stir in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs and ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free.
How to Serve Poppy Seed Chicken
Poppy Seed Chicken is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Over Rice: A classic pairing! White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice work wonderfully.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with fluffy mashed potatoes.
- Pasta: Serve over egg noodles or penne for a comforting twist.
- Vegetables: Roasted green beans, asparagus, or a fresh salad complement the richness of the casserole.
- Dinner Rolls: Use soft rolls to scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
How to Store Poppy Seed Chicken
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Assemble the casserole without the topping, then freeze it in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding the topping and baking.
Cover the casserole with foil while reheating to prevent the topping from burning. Remove the foil during the last few minutes for a crispy finish.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Can I make Poppy Seed Chicken ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Add extra bake time if starting from a cold casserole.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can make a homemade version using a roux of butter, flour, and chicken broth with a splash of milk or heavy cream.
Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is a great substitute, especially around the holidays.
Q: What’s the best way to make this dish kid-friendly?
Kids love the creamy sauce and crunchy topping! If they’re picky eaters, stick to the classic recipe without added vegetables or spices.
Q: Is it okay to leave out the poppy seeds?
While you can omit them, the poppy seeds are a defining ingredient that adds flavor and texture. Consider using sesame seeds as an alternative if needed.
Poppy Seed Chicken
Poppy Seed Chicken - This creamy, hearty casserole combines tender chicken, a sauce, and a crispy topping with the nutty flavor of poppy seeds, creating a dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 5 cups cooked chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz each)
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (about 1 ½ rolls)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¼ tsp celery salt
- 1 tsp minced garlic
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9x13-inch casserole dish with non-stick spray.
- Boil chicken breasts for about 20 minutes, then cool slightly and cube into 1-inch pieces. (Shortcut: use rotisserie or leftover chicken!) Place in the prepared dish.
- In a bowl, mix sour cream and condensed soup. Add Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, garlic, lemon juice, and pepper. Pour this creamy mixture over the chicken.
- In another bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, poppy seeds, and melted butter. Sprinkle this buttery topping evenly over the chicken and sauce.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbling.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 935Total Fat 58gSaturated Fat 27gTrans Fat 2gUnsaturated Fat 25gCholesterol 256mgSodium 1810mgCarbohydrates 38gFiber 1gSugar 6gProtein 63g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Poppy Seed Chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re preparing it for a busy weeknight or bringing it to a potluck, this dish never fails to impress. By following these tips and exploring the variations, you can make it your own and enjoy this comforting classic in a whole new way.
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