Wedding Chicken
Wedding Chicken is a creamy, comforting casserole with tender chicken in a savory sauce, topped with crunchy crackers and optional poppy seeds, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and water until well combined.
- Add the chopped cooked chicken to the mixture.
- Melt 1 stick of oleo (butter) in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Pour off the melted oleo and spread the chicken mixture into the casserole.
- Sprinkle crushed Ritz cracker crumbs evenly over the top.
- Pour the melted oleo over the cracker crumbs.
- Optional: sprinkle with poppy seed on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until the mixture bubbles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken instead of plain cooked chicken. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option, or use a low-sodium soup to reduce salt content. If you want more texture, add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the chicken mixture. This dish is reminiscent of other American recipes like Sunday Go To Church Chicken Casserole, which also features creamy sauces and crunchy toppings.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings and pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside rice or a crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a fun twist, try serving it with Ramen Salad for a crunchy contrast to the casserole's creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wedding Chicken contains roughly 111 calories, with 5g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 722mg per serving (31% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pour the melted oleo over the top and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy days!
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, you can use any buttery cracker or even crushed potato chips for a similar effect. Panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter can also create a crunchy topping that works well with the creamy chicken mixture.
Is it possible to freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Assemble it, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. This is a great way to have a meal ready to go!
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).