Name: Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Everyone Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (Feel free to swap in rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.); 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (Acts as the creamy base.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Low-fat options work well for a lighter dish.); 1 cup Crushed Crackers (Experiment with different cracker flavors.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Make sure it's fully melted for even coating.)

As I stood in the kitchen, the irresistible aroma of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to cozy family dinners and laughter-filled gatherings. With its creamy, savory goodness and a perfectly crunchy topping, this dish is the epitome of comfort food that brings everyone to the table. The charm of this quick weeknight dinner is its simplicity — it requires minimal time and effort, making it a go-to meal for busy evenings or those special moments you want to share with loved ones. Plus, the potential for variations means you can customize it with seasonal ingredients or your favorite homemade soup! Ready to discover why this casserole is the talk of the town? Let’s dive in!

Why is this casserole a game changer?

Simplicity at Its Finest: With just five ingredients, this casserole delivers rich flavors without the fuss.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, its comforting taste satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

Endless Customization: Play with seasonal vegetables or use your favorite homemade soup for a personalized touch.

Quick Preparation: This recipe shines on busy nights, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in no time.

If you’re a fan of heartwarming casseroles, don’t miss out on my delightful Chicken Noodle Casserole or the flavorful Mexican Chicken Casserole for even more family favorites!

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

Shredded Cooked Chicken – Provides protein and hearty flavor; feel free to swap in rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
Cream of Chicken Soup – Acts as the creamy base for the casserole, adding moisture; homemade versions can enhance freshness even more.
Sour Cream – Adds tang and creaminess, perfectly balancing the richness of the soup; low-fat options work well for a lighter dish.

For the Topping

Crushed Crackers – Creates a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling; experiment with different cracker flavors for fun twists.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup / 1 stick, melted) – Helps brown the topping and adds richness; make sure it’s fully melted for even coating.

This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole offers a delicious way to bring family together around the dining table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Everyone Is Talking About

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. This will ensure a beautiful cook and easy cleanup. As you prepare this dish, the excitement of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole fills the air!

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Use a spatula to blend everything together until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency. This mixture forms the heart of your casserole, so take a moment to savor how wonderfully it comes together. Once ready, spread the mixture evenly into the greased baking dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a separate bowl, take your crushed crackers and pour in the melted unsalted butter. Stir thoroughly until the crackers are well-coated with the buttery goodness. This step is crucial for achieving a perfectly crunchy topping that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy filling of the casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Once the topping is ready, evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken filling in the baking dish. Use your fingers to spread it out for even coverage, ensuring that every bite of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole delights with that golden crunch. The dish should now look inviting and ready for its time in the oven.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling and the topping is golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen as the casserole transforms into a comforting masterpiece.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This brief resting period allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. As you slice into your delicious creation, the layers of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole will reveal their creamy and crunchy glory.

Expert Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Use Leftovers Wisely: Rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken can make this dish quicker and just as delicious, saving you precious time during busy weeknights.
Creaminess Factor: For an even creamier filling, consider adding a splash of chicken broth or a spoonful of cream cheese. It enhances the comforting texture everyone loves!
Herb It Up: Don’t be shy—fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavors of your casserole. Just a sprinkle can transform Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole into a gourmet affair.
Perfect Crust: To avoid a soggy topping, make sure your butter is fully melted and ensure the crushed crackers are evenly distributed. This will give you that golden crunchy finish!
Cool Before Serving: Let your casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking. This simple step makes it much easier to serve clean, beautiful portions without any mess.

Storage Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to enjoy this comforting dish later, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring it’s warm and ready to enjoy.
Thawing: For best results, thaw frozen casserole overnight in the fridge before reheating. This helps maintain its creamy texture and taste!

What to Serve with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Create a cozy and satisfying meal by pairing this delectable casserole with tempting side dishes and drinks!

Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette adds a crunchy, vibrant contrast that rounds out the meal beautifully. The bright flavors will enhance the creamy richness of the casserole.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious, colorful addition, balancing the dish’s comforting textures with a fresh, crisp bite.
Warm Biscuits: Serve up buttery, flaky biscuits for a delightful complement. They’re perfect for soaking up the casserole’s creamy filling, making every bite pure bliss.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread brings an aromatic crunch, adding a delicious layer of flavor that aligns perfectly with the savory components of the casserole.
Apple Sauce: A side of sweet, homemade apple sauce serves as a refreshing palate cleanser, creating a delightful contrast with the dish’s rich flavors.
Light White Wine: Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The light acidity of the wine will cut through the creaminess, enhancing your dining experience.
Chocolate Cake: Finish off with a slice of rich chocolate cake for dessert. It’s a family-favorite way to cap off a comforting meal, bringing happiness to any gathering.

Variations for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Customize your casserole masterpiece with these fun and delicious variations!

Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty, plant-based option. You’ll be surprised by how satisfying it is!
Cream of Mushroom: Replace the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a different creamy flavor. This twist brings a lovely earthy taste that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up! With just a few modifications, your family will enjoy an exciting flavor adventure.
Italian Inspiration: Mix in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning for a delightful Mediterranean flair. This variation can elevate your dish to new culinary heights!
Crispy Topping: Use crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs instead of crackers for an extra crunch. This small change can create distinct textures at each bite!
Fresh Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or asparagus to bring in vibrant colors and nutrients. This adds freshness and showcases the bounty of the season!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even tastier when served.

For more tasty casserole ideas, why not check out my comforting Sweet Potato Casserole or the hearty Hamburger Potato Casserole? Each option is perfect for inviting family and friends over for dinner!

Make Ahead Options

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is an ideal candidate for meal prep, saving you time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, simply assembling all the components and covering the dish tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. If you want to prep specific components, mix the chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the crushed cracker topping separate, and combine it just before baking to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for best results. Your family will love how delicious it is, even after being prepped ahead!

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for the casserole?
Absolutely! For the best results, use shredded cooked chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic option for convenience and flavor. If you have leftover cooked chicken from a previous meal, that works great too. Just ensure it’s not overly salty to keep the overall dish well-balanced.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To keep it at its best, make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing the container to prevent condensation.

Can I freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! To do so, first cool the casserole completely. Then place individual portions or the entire casserole in airtight freezer bags or containers. Label them with the date and try to enjoy them within 2 months for the best taste. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What should I do if my casserole is too dry or too wet?
The more the merrier! If your casserole turns out too dry, this could mean more cream of chicken soup or a splash of chicken broth can enhance the moisture. For a wetter casserole, consider reducing the soup or sour cream next time. If you’re adapting the recipe, it’s essential to maintain the right balance so that creamy goodness shines through!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very much so! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, ensure to check the ingredients in your cream of chicken soup and sour cream, as they may contain allergens. For a lighter option, you can substitute with low-fat sour cream and use gluten-free crackers or alternative toppings if gluten sensitivity is a concern.

Can I make variations to this casserole?
Of course! This dish invites creativity. You can incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor. If you want to personalize the dish further, try making your own cream of chicken soup or even substituting with seasonal ingredients to keep it fresh and exciting!