Kate'S Chicken Casserole
A creamy chicken casserole with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping, featuring tender chicken, savory soup, and a hint of poppy seed, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chicken until done, then pull off the bone and shred or chop into pieces.
- Mix and heat the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and poppy seed until well combined and warm.
- Place the cooked chicken in a casserole dish and pour the soup mixture over the chicken.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz crackers and dot with margarine on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F until bubbly, approximately 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to the soup mixture. If you don't have Ritz crackers, crushed breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips can serve as a suitable substitute. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier twist. Make sure to season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Imperial Palace Salad, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. Serve with a side of cornbread for a comforting meal. For a more filling option, consider offering mashed potatoes or a grain-based side dish like quinoa.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to keep it moist and bake at 325°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be cautious not to overheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kate'S Chicken Casserole contains roughly 925 calories, with 10g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1590mg per serving (69% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a homemade version, you can make a simple white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken bouillon. Alternatively, cream of mushroom soup or a homemade vegetable cream soup can work as a substitute, adding a different flavor profile to the casserole.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first to ensure even cooking. You can thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. If using frozen chicken, increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it is fully cooked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).