Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole is a creamy, easy dinner that your family is going to love. It’s a comfort food classic that’s also perfect for new parents, the church potluck, and the freezer.

A southern staple at church pot lucks and family get together's, just so happens to always involve poppy seed chicken. I was actually introduced to it through my sister-n-law years ago, when she made it as a quick fix, filling meal while we were visiting. It's been on dinner rotation in our house every since. It's simple, delicious, and the perfect pairing with a vegetable and a starch.

How do I make Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole?

Start with:

• ½ cup butter, melted
• 1 cup crushed butter round crackers
• 2 tablespoons poppy seeds, divided
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• ¼ cup flour
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup half and half
• 6 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
• 1 ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper

1. In a large skillet, add ¼ cup of the melted butter, sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat until fragrant.
2. Stir in the flour.
3. Gradually add the broth, stirring to combine. Pour in the half and half and cook until slightly thickened.
4. Add the cream cheese, in small amounts, stirring to melt each addition before adding more.
5. Pour in the seasoning and 1 tablespoon of poppy seeds.
6. Stir in the chicken.
7. Add to a baking dish. Mix together the remainder of the butter and the crushed crackers. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the chicken in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remainder of the poppy seeds.
8. Bake

FAQ’s/Substitutions

Can I freeze poppy seed chicken casserole?

Yes. Follow the directions all the way through, until baking. Cover it with foil, a baking dish lid, or plastic wrap and place in the freezer. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge over night. Bake according to the directions.

Can I use anything besides crushed Ritz crackers on top?

Yes. Any type of bread crumb will work or even plain crushed potato chips.

What types of cream of soups can I use?

I like using cream of chicken and cream of mushroom. However, I think that cream of celery would also be really good.

What can I serve with poppy seed chicken?

I like serving it over rice. You could also serve it over egg noodles or orzo. Or you can eat it alone.

Can I make poppy seed chicken without sour cream?

Yes. You can replace it with plain Greek yogurt, if you’d like.

What type of chicken is used to make poppy seed chicken?

I actually love using boneless skinless chicken breasts. You would cook chicken thighs and pull the meat from the bones. Or you could buy a rotisserie chicken and use the meat from it.

If you love poppy seed chicken, I think you’ll enjoy pairing it with these:

• Simple Southern Fried Squash
• Skinny Broccoli Salad
• The Best Southern Cornbread