Susan'S Poppy Seed Chicken
A creamy, flavorful casserole featuring tender chicken, crunchy Ritz crackers, and a poppy seed topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray (Pam).
- Place diced boiled chicken evenly in the casserole dish.
- Mix cream of chicken soup and sour cream together, then pour over the chicken.
- Crush Ritz crackers and combine with poppy seed.
- Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Pour melted margarine over the entire dish.
- Bake uncovered in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. If you're short on time, rotisserie chicken can be a great substitute for boiled chicken. For added flavor, try mixing in some sautéed onions or garlic. If you're looking for a crunchier topping, consider using crushed potato chips instead of Ritz crackers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Susan's Poppy Seed Chicken with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mom's 3-Cheese Scalloped Potatoes for a comforting side. For added flavor, you can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a light pasta dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out. This dish also freezes well; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Susan'S Poppy Seed Chicken contains roughly 2269 calories, with 71g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 169g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (235% of the Daily Value), iron (197% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1325mg per serving (58% 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 use a different type of soup?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors of cream soup, such as cream of mushroom or cream of celery, to add a unique twist to the dish. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, so choose one that complements the other ingredients.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the cracker topping and melted margarine right before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or special occasions.
What can I serve with Poppy Seed Chicken?
This dish pairs well with various sides like steamed broccoli, rice pilaf, or a simple garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Chicken Rice Dressing or Herb Butter Roasted Chicken for a delicious spread.
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).