Description
Poppy Seed Chicken is a comforting baked casserole featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a creamy mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, topped with cheddar cheese, crunchy poppy seeds, and a buttery cracker crust. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a creamy, savory entrée perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
Toppings
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tbsp poppy seeds
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup crushed crackers (such as Ritz crackers)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and allow easy cleanup.
- Prepare the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
- Make the creamy sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup and sour cream until smooth and well mixed. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts, covering them thoroughly.
- Add cheese and poppy seeds: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the creamy sauce, then distribute the poppy seeds on top to add texture and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Prepare crumb topping: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with the crushed crackers until the crackers are well coated. Sprinkle this buttery cracker mixture evenly over the top of the chicken and sauce layer to create a crispy, golden crust when baked.
- Bake the casserole: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the topping is golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve the dish hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the crackers with breadcrumbs for an alternative crunchy topping.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle some paprika or garlic powder on the chicken before adding the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a green salad to balance the richness.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs.
