If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, cozy hug delivered right to your table, then Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe is just the ticket. This comforting casserole blends simple, wholesome ingredients into a creamy, savory delight topped with a perfectly buttery cracker crust. It’s the kind of meal that’s incredibly easy to whip up on any weeknight but impressive enough to make guests ask for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new go-to for fuss-free comfort food with a Southern twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe is how few ingredients it calls for, yet each plays a crucial role in building flavors and textures that complement each other beautifully. Every component brings something special to the dish, creating a harmony that’s rich, creamy, and absolutely satisfying.
- Shredded cooked chicken (2 cups): Using rotisserie chicken here saves time and adds pre-seasoned, tender meat that’s perfect for casseroles.
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz): This adds creaminess and a gentle savory base that ties the whole dish together.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings a slightly tangy richness that balances the flavors and keeps the casserole moist.
- Buttery round crackers (1 sleeve, about 30): Crushed to create the irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy filling below.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted): Coats the cracker crumbs to give that golden, crisp finish that makes every bite delightful.
How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole won’t stick and will come out in perfect form after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir them until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. This filling forms the hearty heart of the casserole that’s both rich and comforting.
Step 3: Spread the Filling
Spread your chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Taking time to level it out helps ensure every forkful will have consistent creaminess and chicken goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
Next, mix the crushed buttery crackers with melted butter in a separate bowl. The butter acts as glue, turning the cracker crumbs golden and crisp while adding a rich, buttery flavor to the crunchy topping.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer, then place the dish in your preheated oven. Bake for about 30–35 minutes or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping turns a mouthwatering golden brown.
Step 6: Let It Rest
After baking, give the casserole about 5 minutes to cool slightly. This brief resting time lets everything settle so it’s easier to serve and enjoy without losing any of that creamy texture.
How to Serve Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this homey dish, try fresh chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top. They add a pop of color and a subtle fresh flavor that brightens each bite. A small handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese melted on top before serving can also add extra richness and gooey goodness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creamy richness. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus also bring a satisfying veggie crunch and vibrant color to the plate, balancing the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to dress this up a bit, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant single-serve presentation. Another fun idea is layering it with a bit of sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions folded into the chicken filling to deepen the flavor complexity without losing that simple, five-ingredient magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when covered tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Leftovers make a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the unbaked casserole in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking following the same steps — just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through to maintain that crispy topping. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just keep in mind the topping won’t stay as crisp.
FAQs
Can I substitute the rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! You can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, such as leftover roast chicken, grilled chicken breasts, or even canned chicken in a pinch. Just make sure it’s shredded finely for the best texture.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the buttery round crackers for a gluten-free cracker variety. Many stores offer gluten-free buttery crackers that will replicate the texture and flavor wonderfully without gluten.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you’d rather avoid canned soup, you can make a homemade creamy base with a simple béchamel sauce and chicken broth, or use sour cream and cream cheese mixed with chicken broth for a thicker texture. This keeps the casserole creamy and flavorful.
Can I add veggies to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped cooked broccoli, peas, or mushrooms can be folded into the chicken mixture before baking for added nutrition and texture without complicating the recipe.
How do I ensure the cracker topping stays crunchy?
To keep the topping crisp, make sure your crackers are well coated in melted butter and sprinkle them evenly over the chicken layer without pressing down. Baking uncovered also helps the top brown and stay crunchy.
Final Thoughts
Diving into Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe feels like bringing a little bit of Southern sunshine right into your kitchen. It’s simple, quick, and deliciously satisfying, with that perfect blend of creamy chicken and buttery, crunchy topping everyone will love. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making this one again and again for family dinners, potlucks, or any day you want a little comfort on a plate.
Print
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish featuring tender shredded chicken baked with creamy soup and sour cream, topped with a buttery, crunchy cracker crust. This casserole combines simple pantry staples to create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 sleeve (about 30) buttery round crackers, crushed
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for baking.
- Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Spread this filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed buttery round crackers with the melted unsalted butter, ensuring the crackers are fully coated.
- Assemble Casserole: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling layer to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping turns golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add finely chopped onions or garlic into the filling mix before baking.
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery for variation.
- Use gluten-free crackers if you need to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
