Imagine a dish that combines the creamy, cheesy goodness of a classic casserole with a surprising crunch of poppy seed-crusted crackers – this Cheesy Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is about to become your new obsession! Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or when you're craving a nostalgic comfort meal that's both simple to prepare and incredibly delicious. Get ready to transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Season the chicken mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the mixture.
- Fold in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture, reserving the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
- Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with poppy seeds. Mix well to distribute the poppy seeds throughout the cracker crumbs.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken mixture.
- Evenly distribute the poppy seed cracker crumb mixture over the cheese, creating a crispy topping.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach chicken breasts for the most tender meat.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or dried herbs to the chicken mixture.
- Choose high-quality buttery crackers like Ritz for the most flavorful and crispy topping.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- For a lighter version, substitute low-fat sour cream and cream of chicken soup.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated to get that perfect golden-brown cracker topping.
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated – just add 10-15 minutes to baking time if cooking from cold.
- Freeze individual portions for quick future meals by wrapping tightly in freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 498kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
