Preheat your oven to 350°F. It's essential to get your oven ready so the casserole bakes evenly. The ideal temperature ensures a perfectly cooked dish with a golden crust.
Spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will help create a lovely presentation when you serve the casserole.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth. You want a creamy mixture that will envelop the chicken beautifully.
Place the cooked and chopped chicken in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure every bite has plenty of chicken.
Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken, making sure to cover it completely. This will create a luscious base that holds all the flavors together.
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed Ritz crackers and melted butter. Stir until the crackers are well-coated with the butter. This mixture will form the crunchy topping that everyone loves.
Add the cracker mixture to the top of the cream sauce, spreading it evenly. This layer of crunch is essential for texture.
Sprinkle the poppy seeds over the top for a nice touch of flavor and visual appeal. The seeds add a subtle nuttiness that complements the dish wonderfully.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the top to be browned and crispy, and the filling should be bubbling around the edges.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the layers to settle and make it easier to serve.
