Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a rich and creamy baked dish made with tender shredded chicken in a homemade sauce, topped with buttery crushed crackers. It’s comforting, satisfying, and perfect for a family dinner served over pasta or alongside a fresh green salad.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy, flavorful homemade sauce made from scratch
Simple ingredients that are easy to find
Perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken
Quick baking time for busy weeknights
Family-friendly and kid-approved
Great for meal prep and reheats beautifully
Can be served on its own or over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 ½ pounds cooked, shredded chicken breast
3 tablespoons salted butter
2 teaspoons minced garlic
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup milk (2% recommended)
1 cup chicken broth
8 ounces sour cream
4 ounces chive and onion cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of salted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden and forms a smooth paste.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Add the chicken broth and continue whisking until fully combined.
Stir in the sour cream, softened cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the shredded chicken and poppy seeds to the sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
Pour the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
In a small bowl, combine the crushed crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is golden.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve over cooked bow tie pasta, rice, or enjoy on its own.
Add vegetables
Mix in 1 cup of steamed broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
Use rotisserie chicken
Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and added depth of flavor.
Cheese boost
Stir in 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the sauce for an extra cheesy casserole.
Spicy twist
Add 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for mild heat.
Pasta bake version
Mix cooked bow tie pasta directly into the chicken mixture before baking to create a complete one-dish meal.
Storage/Reheating
Storage
Allow the casserole to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
To reheat the full casserole, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I leave out the poppy seeds?
Yes, the casserole will still be creamy and delicious. The poppy seeds add mild texture rather than strong flavor.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, cooked and shredded chicken thighs work well and may add even more flavor due to their slightly higher fat content.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
What type of crackers work best for the topping?
Buttery round crackers work best because they create a crisp, golden topping with rich flavor.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free crackers to adapt the recipe.
Why is my sauce too thick?
If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a few tablespoons of milk or chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I add pasta directly into the casserole?
Yes, fully cooked pasta can be mixed into the chicken mixture before baking for a heartier dish.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is ready when it is heated through and the cracker topping is lightly golden.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two 9×13-inch dishes or one larger baking dish. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.
What can I serve with this casserole?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed green beans pair perfectly with the creamy richness of the dish.
Conclusion
Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights. With its rich homemade sauce and buttery cracker topping, it’s a dependable family favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed on its own, this casserole delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.
A creamy, comforting baked casserole made with tender shredded chicken in a rich homemade sauce and topped with buttery crushed crackers. Perfect for family dinners and easy weeknight meals.
