Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the kind of dish that makes comfort food feel effortless. With tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, melty cheddar, and a golden buttery cracker topping, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Because everything comes together in minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you still want a warm, home-cooked meal. The short ingredient list keeps things stress-free, while the irresistible combination of textures makes this casserole a family favorite from the first bite.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 sleeve butter crackers, crushed

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
2. Mix the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream in a bowl.
3. Spread half of the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Layer the remaining chicken mixture over the cheese.
6. Top with the remaining cheese and finish with crushed crackers.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Long before this casserole became a household staple, it was the kind of dish that reminded me of the meals shared at community gatherings and family potlucks. I first tasted a version of it at a neighbor’s Sunday lunch, where everyone brought something warm and comforting. The moment I tried this creamy, cheesy bake topped with buttery crackers, I knew it had that unmistakable Southern charm that makes simple food unforgettable. After recreating it at home, I realized how easy it was to prepare, yet how quickly it disappeared from the table. Ever since then, it has become one of my go-to recipes whenever I need something cozy, reliable, and satisfying.

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Why This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Works Every Time

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

With only five ingredients, each one plays an important role. The cream of chicken soup provides a silky base, while the sour cream adds tang and richness. Using cooked shredded chicken keeps the recipe speedy, and cheddar cheese melts into every layer for comforting flavor. Finally, the buttery crackers on top add crunch, giving the casserole a perfect texture contrast. Because the flavors blend so well, the recipe tastes like it took hours to prepare even though it comes together in minutes.

A Foolproof Method for Busy Schedules

This casserole is designed for nights when you need dinner to be dependable and quick. Since the chicken is already cooked, the oven time is short. Layering everything ensures even baking, and the crackers turn beautifully golden without any extra steps. The simplicity of the method makes it nearly impossible to mess up, which is why it’s such a favorite for beginners, families, and anyone who loves low-effort comfort meals.

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Ingredient Tips and Easy Variations

Choosing the Best Chicken for This Recipe

Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully because it’s tender and well-seasoned, but any cooked chicken will do. You can use leftovers, poached chicken breasts, or slow-cooked chicken for a softer texture. If you want a heartier casserole, adding a bit more chicken doesn’t change the recipe at all. Because the sauce is naturally creamy, the dish stays moist even if your chicken is lean.

How to Customize the Flavor

While the recipe shines with just five ingredients, optional additions can personalize it. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder adds depth without extra work. A handful of frozen peas or cooked broccoli can make it a more complete meal. For a different flavor profile, swap cheddar for pepper jack or Colby cheese. The buttery crackers are classic, but crushed cornflakes or seasoned breadcrumbs make good substitutes if needed.

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Baking and Serving Tips

Getting the Perfect Crispy Topping

The cracker topping browns beautifully thanks to the butter content, but you can enhance the crunch by mixing the crumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling. This step is optional but adds a deeper toasted flavor. Spread the crumbs evenly so the whole casserole gets a consistent golden finish.

Keeping It Creamy and Delicious

Because the casserole contains sour cream, it stays moist and smooth during baking. Letting it rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven helps the layers settle, making it easier to scoop clean servings. Served warm, it pairs well with simple sides like steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or buttery rolls.

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Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing

Make-Ahead Directions

This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. Because it’s built in layers, the texture stays perfect even after sitting overnight. When baking from cold, add 5 to 10 extra minutes to the oven time to ensure the center heats through.

Storage and Freezer Tips

Leftovers stay creamy and delicious for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. The casserole also freezes well. To freeze, assemble it without baking, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

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FAQ

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes. It creates a slightly tangier casserole but still works well.

Can I use different crackers for the topping?
Crushed butter crackers are classic, but breadcrumbs or cornflakes also work.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and extend the baking time by 10 minutes.

Does the chicken need to be seasoned?
Using seasoned chicken adds more flavor, but plain cooked chicken works too.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Frozen peas, corn, or cooked broccoli mix in easily.

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Conclusion

This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole delivers everything you want in an easy comfort-food dinner. It’s creamy, cheesy, crunchy, and unbelievably simple to make. With only a few ingredients and almost no prep time, you’ll have a cozy dish ready for any night of the week. Whether you serve it for family dinner or bring it to a potluck, this casserole proves that simple recipes can be the most memorable.