Healthy Herb-Infused Poppy Seed Chicken Bake
Indulge in this delicious and guilt-free Healthy Herb-Infused Poppy Seed Chicken Bake, perfect for family dinners or meal prep! This dish combines tender, diced chicken breast with a creamy, low-fat sauce made from condensed soup and sour cream, infused with the aromatic touch of poultry seasoning and fresh onions. Topped with a crunchy layer of Ritz cracker crumbs sprinkled with poppy seeds, this one-dish meal is satisfying and easy to prepare, all while keeping it light and nutritious. Enjoy a balanced meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to share with friends and family!
4
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Boneless skinless chicken breast
1 lb (cooked and diced)
Low-fat condensed cream of chicken soup
1 (10 1/2 ounce) can
Low-fat sour cream
1 cup
Onion
1/2 cup (diced)
Poultry seasoning
1 tablespoon
Low-fat Ritz crackers
4 ounces (crushed (about 20))
Poppy seeds
2 tablespoons
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and diced chicken breast, low-fat condensed cream of chicken soup, low-fat sour cream, diced onion, and poultry seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
3
Transfer the chicken mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
4
In a separate bowl, crush the Ritz crackers and combine them with the poppy seeds. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
5
Sprinkle the cracker and poppy seed mixture evenly over the top of the chicken mixture in the baking dish.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
7
Remove from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes, and serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Healthy Herb-Infused Poppy Seed Chicken Bake?
It is a nutritious and lightened-up version of the classic poppy seed chicken casserole, featuring tender chicken, a creamy low-fat sauce, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What is the recommended oven temperature for this bake?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
How long does the Healthy Herb-Infused Poppy Seed Chicken Bake need to cook?
It needs to bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown.
Does the chicken need to be cooked before putting it in the casserole?
Yes, the recipe requires 1 lb of boneless skinless chicken breast that has already been cooked and diced.
What makes this version of poppy seed chicken 'healthy'?
This version uses low-fat condensed cream of chicken soup, low-fat sour cream, and low-fat Ritz crackers to reduce the overall fat and calorie content.
What type of soup is used in the sauce?
The recipe calls for one 10.5-ounce can of low-fat condensed cream of chicken soup.
Can I substitute the low-fat sour cream?
While the recipe calls for low-fat sour cream, you could potentially use plain Greek yogurt as a high-protein substitute.
How many Ritz crackers are needed for the topping?
You will need approximately 4 ounces of low-fat Ritz crackers, which is about 20 crackers.
What gives the dish its 'herb-infused' flavor?
The flavor comes from the addition of one tablespoon of poultry seasoning and diced fresh onions.
How much poppy seed is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of poppy seeds mixed into the cracker topping.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it is excellent for meal prep as it can be easily divided into containers and reheated for later meals.
Can I add vegetables to this chicken bake?
While not in the original recipe, you could easily add steamed broccoli or peas to the chicken mixture for extra nutrition.
What is the best way to crush the Ritz crackers?
You can crush them by hand in a sealed plastic bag or use a rolling pin to achieve a uniform crumb texture.
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, while breast is recommended, you can use cooked chicken thighs or even rotisserie chicken as long as it is diced.
Is this a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is categorized as a one-dish meal because the main components are baked together in a single dish.
What should the topping look like when it's done?
The cracker and poppy seed topping should be golden brown and crunchy.
How do I ensure the sauce is well-mixed?
Combine the chicken, soup, sour cream, onion, and seasoning in a large mixing bowl and stir thoroughly before transferring to the baking dish.
Can I use dried onion instead of fresh?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of diced fresh onion, but you could use 2 tablespoons of dried minced onion if necessary.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the creamy texture and familiar cracker topping make it a popular choice for children.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it, though the cracker topping may lose some crispness upon thawing and reheating.
What are the main tags for this recipe?
Tags include low-fat, chicken casserole, one-dish meal, healthy recipe, and comfort food.
Can I substitute the poultry seasoning?
If you don't have poultry seasoning, you can use a mix of dried sage, thyme, and rosemary.
How do I prevent the topping from burning?
Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature and check at the 15-minute mark; if it browns too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
The recipe does not list any added sugar as an ingredient.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, cooked and diced turkey works perfectly as a substitute for chicken in this bake.
How should I serve this dish?
It is best served warm, perhaps with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
What size baking dish is recommended?
A standard 9x9 inch or 11x7 inch baking dish usually works well for 4 servings.
Is the texture of the chicken dry?
No, the combination of condensed soup and sour cream creates a moist and creamy environment for the chicken.