Description
This dish has been a staple in Southern kitchens for decades ā and once you taste it, you’ll know why. The creamy chicken filling, buttery cracker topping, and subtle crunch of poppy seeds come together in theĀ ultimate comfort food casseroleĀ thatās bothĀ easy to makeĀ and completelyĀ crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 4 cups cooked + shredded chicken (rotisserie works great!)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (or homemade ā see below)
- 1 cup sour cream
- Ā½ tsp garlic powder
- Ā½ tsp onion powder
- Ā½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt + pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30 crackers), crushed
- 2 tbsp poppy seeds
- 4 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional, but adds amazing flavor)
Instructions
In a large bowl, stir together the chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a separate bowl, toss the crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter, poppy seeds, and Parmesan (if using). Sprinkle the topping evenly over the chicken mixture.
Bake atĀ 350Ā°FĀ forĀ 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cracker topping is golden brown.
Let it cool forĀ 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.