Poppy Seed Chicken Casserole
The rich flavors and comforting texture of poppy seed chicken always make me feel right at home. It’s simply a classic, and I can’t wait to share my family’s recipe with you.

A beloved Southern American comfort food, poppy seed chicken has been around for many decades. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, crunchy poppy seeds and buttery Ritz cracker topping creates an irresistible flavor that has made it a favorite in recipe books and boxes passed down for generations.
While the exact origin is unclear, the dish has been a staple at potlucks, church gatherings, and family meals as long as anyone can remember.
One theory suggests that the recipe was inspired by a traditional Eastern European dish called “mákos tészta,” which combines poppy seeds and pasta in a sweet or savory sauce. As immigrants from this region settled in the U.S., that dish may have evolved into this one.
Another simpler likelihood is it came from the tradition of Southern casseroles, for which we are known to throw rich, creamy and crunchy ingredients together with different meats and veggies to see what works! Either way, I sure am glad this poppy seed chicken casserole exists — and I think you will be, too.
What goes with poppy seed chicken?
You have lots of options for what to serve with this creamy chicken casserole. You can make it even richer by serving it with creamy homemade mashed potatoes. For a little lighter option, try it with rice or noodles.
If you want the added nutrition of greens, do a simple green salad, or try this easy oven-roasted broccoli or roasted vegetable salad. Another option is to go all-in on the casserole mode, and pair it with my cheesy green bean casserole with fresh green beans.
Iced tea and lemonade are both good choices for beverages with this dish. They’re refreshing and balance the flavors well.
For dessert, go with a light, fruity option like strawberry jello salad, strawberry pretzel salad or baked apple slices.
Ingredients needed to make poppy seed chicken
Here are all the goods to gather for this delicious chicken dish.
- Poppy Seeds: A must-have for poppy seed chicken, of course. Their texture and nutty flavor stand out in every bite.
- Chicken: Chopped chicken breasts offer a hearty protein source and satisfying, tender texture.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: Adds a creamy base and savory flavor to the sauce.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Gives the sauce a tangy richness and a smooth texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor to enhance the overall taste.
- Black Pepper: Gives the dish a subtle kick of heat.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the sauce with a savory essence.
- Ritz Crackers: Tops the dish with a crunchy texture and buttery flavor.
- Butter: Binds the cracker topping together with more indulgent flavor.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9 x 13 Baking dish
- 1 Large mixing bowl
- 1 Medium mixing bowl
Frequently asked questions about poppy seed chicken
When I share this poppy seed chicken recipe or serve it to guests, people tend to ask the same questions, which I have answered below. Leave a comment if you have a question I haven’t covered, and I will reply as soon as I can!
Can you tell me how to freeze poppy seed chicken?
To freeze poppy seed chicken, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can you make poppy seed chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything but the crushed crackers for this poppy seed chicken in advance and store it, unbaked, in the fridge for 1-2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, add the buttery crackers and bake as directed.
Are poppy seeds and chia seeds the same?
No. Poppy seeds come from the opium poppy plant and have a nutty flavor, while chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant and have a more neutral taste. Although they can be used interchangeably in some recipes, it’s best to use poppy seeds for traditional poppyseed chicken to get that classic flavor and texture.
More Grandma-Approved Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this recipe for poppy seed chicken, take a look at some of these other yummy recipes:
- Easy Beef Stroganoff
- Easy Egg Salad
- Loaded Baked Potato Dip
- Chicken Spaghetti With Rotel
- Creamy Lemon Chicken Piccata With Capers
Poppyseed Chicken
Equipment
- 9 x 13 Baking Dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds divided
- 10.5 ounces can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 chicken breasts cooked and chopped
- 2 cups Ritz crackers crushed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Cook the chicken, if haven't already.
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- In a large bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, half the poppy seeds, Parmesan cheese, pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chicken and stir until completely coated in the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine crushed Ritz crackers, remaining poppyseeds and melted butter and mix well. Sprinkle over the chicken mixture.
- Bake for about 30 minutes at 350 degrees until bubbly around the edges.