Description
This comforting Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole features tender shredded chicken mixed with a creamy blend of soups, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings, topped with buttery Ritz crackers and crunchy poppy seeds. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a delightful dinner option perfect for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2 chicken breasts)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can of cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers (or your choice of crackers)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later.
- Prepare the casserole filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and grated cheddar cheese (if using). Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste to enhance the flavor.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the prepared chicken mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Prepare the topping: In a separate small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Add the poppy seeds and stir until all cracker pieces are evenly coated with butter and poppy seeds.
- Top the casserole: Evenly sprinkle the cracker and poppy seed mixture over the chicken mixture in the baking dish, creating a crunchy, flavorful topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes to set. Serve warm with your choice of side dishes such as steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Notes
- You can substitute the Ritz crackers with any buttery cracker or even crushed pretzels for a different texture.
- Adding Dijon mustard and cheddar cheese is optional but recommended for extra flavor depth.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
