When you need a soul-soothing dinner that feels like a Southern hug, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the answer. This comfort classic combines juicy shredded chicken, creamy soup, tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar, and crunchy crackers, all baked to golden perfection. The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity: minimal ingredients, maximum flavor. It’s the kind of meal that asks for little, but gives back so much—melty, cheesy goodness that brings families together at the table. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Dolly or just craving something special without a lot of fuss, you’ll love making (and eating!) this casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just five kitchen staples, you’re on your way to creating something magic. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—some bring the creaminess, others the protein, a couple add that signature cheesy crust and a buttery crunch. Here’s what you’ll gather:
- Shredded Cooked Chicken (3 cups): A fantastic use for leftover rotisserie chicken, or cook and shred your own—either way, it’s the hearty base of the dish.
- Cream of Chicken Soup (10.5 oz can): This pantry staple brings all the creamy, savory soup vibes to bind your casserole together.
- Sour Cream (1 cup): Adds tangy richness and makes the filling ultra-smooth and luscious.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 1/2 cups): Use sharp cheddar for bold taste; part goes into the filling and the rest tops things off with gooey, golden flavor.
- Buttery Round Crackers (1 sleeve, crushed): Ritz-style crackers are classic, adding a salty, crumbly texture you won’t want to skip.
How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or a little butter. This step ensures your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole will release smoothly and helps the edges turn deliciously golden.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s smooth, creamy, and all the chicken is thoroughly coated. This is where the flavors start mingling!
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread it evenly—this ensures every portion will be filled with flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Add the Cracker Topping
Sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers over the entire surface of the casserole. The crackers create that irresistible, savory crunch on top, giving this simple dish its special twist.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Bake
Scatter the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the crackers. Then, slide the dish into the oven, baking uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’re looking for the top to turn golden and bubbly at the edges—a sure sign your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is ready to steal the show.
How to Serve Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Garnishes
Enhance the presentation by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives on top right before serving. This adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness that brightens up every forkful.
Side Dishes
This heartwarming casserole is lovely alongside steamed green beans, a crisp salad with vinaigrette, or simple roasted vegetables. Serve with a basket of warm rolls or fluffy mashed potatoes if you’re feeding a hungry crowd.
Creative Ways to Present
For potlucks or parties, portion the casserole into individual ramekins before baking for a fancied-up feel. Or turn leftovers into a lunch by stuffing warm casserole into a fluffy biscuit for a fun Southern sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors mingle and deepen as it rests, making those leftovers even more irresistible.
Freezing
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole freezes beautifully. Cover the baked or unbaked casserole tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or until hot throughout. For individual servings, a quick zap in the microwave does the trick—just watch for that perfectly melty cheese on top!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken, poached breasts, or even leftover grilled chicken all work beautifully in Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded before adding.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup can easily be swapped in for a subtle flavor twist. You’ll still get that signature creamy texture with a new depth of taste.
How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free crackers and check that your soup is certified gluten-free. The casserole’s rich flavor and crispy topping will shine just as brightly!
Can I prep Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble all the layers, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. When it’s time to eat, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s chilled.
Is it okay to use low-fat ingredients?
You can use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese, and even a “healthy” canned soup if you like. The result will be a little lighter, but every bit as comforting and delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about sharing Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole—it’s heartfelt, satisfying, and easy enough for any night of the week. I hope you’ll give this Southern-inspired favorite a place at your table, and that it fills your home with warmth, laughter, and plenty of second helpings!
Print
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min
- Total Time: 40 min
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a simple, cheesy, and heartwarming Southern favorite that delivers big comfort with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crushed crackers evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Add the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the crackers.
- Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
