Description
This creamy and comforting Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole features shredded chicken breast bathed in a rich garlic cream sauce with a tangy blend of sour cream and cream cheese, topped with buttery poppy seed cracker crumbs for a deliciously crunchy finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this baked casserole brings flavorsome goodness with an easy prep and bake method.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Sauce
- 1 ½ pounds cooked, shredded chicken breast
- 3 Tablespoons salted butter
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (2%)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 4 ounces chive and onion cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 Tablespoon poppy seeds
Crust Topping
- 1/2 sleeve buttery round crackers, crushed
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside to use later.
- Sauté Garlic and Make Roux: 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 all-purpose flour and continue stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until the mixture turns golden-brown, forming a roux.
- Add Liquids and Dairy: Gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until smooth, then stir in 1 cup chicken broth, 8 ounces of sour cream, and 4 ounces of chive and onion cream cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Incorporate Chicken and Poppy Seeds: Add the cooked, shredded chicken breast and 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds into the sauce mixture. Stir well until everything is fully combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the creamy chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top the casserole with the crushed buttery round crackers. Pour 2 tablespoons of melted butter evenly over the cracker topping to help it brown and crisp nicely.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. After baking, remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve this comforting casserole over cooked pasta or your preferred side. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired to add a fresh pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole!
Notes
- Cooking times may vary slightly based on your oven and the size of your baking dish.
- Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for a quick shortcut.
- Use crushed buttery crackers for the topping to add a nice crunchy texture and rich flavor.
- Feel free to serve this casserole over cooked egg noodles, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Chopped parsley is optional but adds a fresh herbal note and pretty garnish.
- For a lower fat version, use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream and reduce butter accordingly.
- Make sure the sauce simmers gently so the cream cheese melts fully and the sauce thickens.
