Name: Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole: Comfort in Every Bite
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Shredded Cooked Chicken (Using rotisserie chicken saves time!); 1 can Cream of Chicken Soup (Can substitute with cream of mushroom.); 1 cup Sour Cream (Opt for full-fat for the richest taste.); 30 pieces Buttery Round Crackers (Crushed for topping.); ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Melted to coat the cracker topping.)

In the whirlwind of a busy day, I often find myself longing for a dish that encapsulates warmth and comfort, something like Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole. This recipe is a true lifesaver, seamlessly combining simplicity with a hearty, family-friendly approach. With just five key ingredients, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy delight that not only warms your heart but also lifts your spirits. It’s perfect for those evenings when time is tight, yet you still crave that home-cooked feel. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly—ideal for anyone looking to stretch their grocery dollars while still nourishing their loved ones. Are you curious about how this classic Southern dish can light up your dinner table? Let’s dive into the comforting details!

Why is this casserole a must-try?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just five ingredients, this dish takes the stress out of meal prep, making it perfect for busy families.
Creamy Comfort: The combination of cream of chicken soup and sour cream produces a rich, comforting flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Ideal for family dinners, this casserole is sure to satisfy hungry mouths, just like Croissant Breakfast Casserole pairs beautifully for brunch.
Customizable Varieties: Feel free to swap chicken for veggies or try different toppings, making each attempt a new culinary adventure!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it in advance, so you can enjoy more quality time with loved ones during mealtime.

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Ingredients

For the Filling

Shredded Cooked Chicken – Adds protein and heartiness; using rotisserie chicken saves time!
Cream of Chicken Soup – Acts as a creamy base; you can substitute with cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile.
Sour Cream – Contributes a delicious tanginess; opt for full-fat for the richest taste or reduced-fat for a lighter option.

For the Topping

Buttery Round Crackers – Provides that all-important crunchy topping; about 30 crushed crackers are perfect for this recipe.
Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – Coats the cracker topping, ensuring a rich buttery flavor that complements the chicken mixture perfectly.

This recipe for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole makes it easy to create a comforting meal in no time!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This will ensure that your delicious Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly throughout.

Step 2: Prepare Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Using a spatula, mix these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with no lumps remaining. Once you have a homogenous blend, spread the filling evenly into your prepared baking dish, ensuring it’s level for consistent cooking.

Step 3: Make Topping
In a separate bowl, take about 30 buttery round crackers and crush them until they resemble coarse crumbs. Melt half a cup of unsalted butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Pour the melted butter over the crushed crackers and mix thoroughly until all crumbs are evenly coated in butter—this will create that irresistible crunch for the topping.

Step 4: Assemble Casserole
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly across the top of the chicken filling in the baking dish. This layer should completely cover the filling, providing that delightful topping that transforms Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole into a comforting, hearty meal. Take a moment to make sure the topping is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake
Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; you’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping turns a beautiful golden brown. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, promising a warm, delicious meal ahead.

Step 6: Serve
Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps the layers set slightly, making it easier to serve. Then, scoop generous portions of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole onto plates, and get ready to enjoy a comforting home-cooked meal with your family.

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine with these delicious twists on Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole!

Vegetarian Swap: Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or both for a hearty and savory dish. This variation is perfect for those seeking a meat-free option without sacrificing flavor.
Different Cheeses: Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for a unique taste experience. Each cheese will bring its own delightful melty goodness to the casserole.
Extra Veggies: Add a nutritional boost by incorporating frozen peas, corn, or broccoli into your filling. These veggies not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish.
Spicy Kick: Spice things up by adding a dash of cayenne pepper or mixing in some jalapeños. This fiery twist will satisfy those who crave a bit of heat in their meals.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Swap out buttery round crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or cracker options. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the comforting crunch of the topping without any worries.
Herb Infusion: Fresh or dried herbs can enhance the flavor profile of your casserole. Try adding thyme or rosemary to the chicken mixture for a fragrant touch that elevates this comforting dish.
Creamy Mushroom Variation: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken for a rich and umami-packed version. It’s a simple swap that transforms the whole dish while keeping it creamy and delightful.
Make-It-Your-Own: Why not pull inspiration from other popular casseroles and mix things up? Try basing it on ideas from a Pot Pie Casserole or even add in elements from your favorite breakfast dishes.

Each of these variations invites you to create your own delicious story in the kitchen. Remember, every casserole can be a new adventure; happy cooking!

Make Ahead Options

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a fantastic solution for meal prep! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This not only saves time during hectic weeknights but also lets the flavors meld beautifully. If you prefer to freeze it, the unbaked casserole can be stored for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking. To finish off, add an additional 10 minutes to the baking time if you’re starting from cold. Just as delicious as when freshly made, this casserole ensures you have a comforting meal ready to serve with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the casserole fresh and moist. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Freezer: For long-term storage, you can freeze the casserole unbaked for up to 2 months. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Thawing: Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking for best results. If baking from frozen, add about 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time until bubbly and golden.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring it stays moist by adding a splash of water or broth if necessary.

Expert Tips for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Stay Moist: Ensure the casserole doesn’t dry out by using adequate creaminess from the soup and sour cream; avoiding overbaking is key.

Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance to maximize your time. Refrigerate overnight and just add a few extra minutes to baking time.

Freezing Flexibility: If you want to make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole ahead of time, freeze it unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight before cooking.

Custom Flavor Boost: Experiment by adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the chicken mixture for an exciting twist.

Even Cooking: Ensure an even bake by leveling all layers in the pan before sliding it into the oven; this helps every bite get that delicious crunch!

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

As you bring the comforting aromas of this casserole to the table, consider these delightful pairings that will complete your meal.

Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens topped with your favorite vinaigrette add a bright crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy casserole.
Buttermilk Cornbread: The fluffy texture of cornbread complements the dish’s heartiness and soaks up any extra sauce. Serve with honey butter for a sweet surprise!
Collard Greens: These tender, seasoned greens provide a Southern touch, balancing the rich flavors of the casserole beautifully.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like carrots and bell peppers brings a colorful plate and a healthy vibrancy to your meal. Roasting intensifies their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up leftover casserole, this indulgent side brings extra cheesy goodness to your plate, making it so hard to resist!
Sweet Tea: Refreshing and quintessentially Southern, a glass of sweet tea pairs perfectly with the casserole, offering a delightful contrast of flavors as you savor each bite.
Apple Crisp: A warm dessert bursting with cinnamon sweetness rounds out the meal beautifully, providing a comforting end to a hearty dinner.

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for the casserole?
Absolutely! Using shredded cooked chicken is essential for this dish. I recommend rotisserie chicken for convenience, as it saves prep time and adds a lovely flavor to your casserole. If you have leftover chicken, feel free to use that too—just make sure it’s shredded evenly for consistent cooking.

How should I store leftovers of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, place it in the oven or microwave until heated through. To maintain moisture, consider adding a splash of broth or water before reheating, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.

Can I freeze Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole! To do this, prepare it unbaked and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from frozen.

What if my casserole ends up too dry?
To prevent your casserole from drying out, it’s crucial to ensure enough moisture is present. Achieve this by using adequate amounts of cream of chicken soup and sour cream. Additionally, avoid overcooking, as that can lead to dryness too! If you find it’s still on the dry side after baking, try serving it with a drizzle of gravy or broth.

Are there any dietary considerations for this casserole?
The beauty of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is its versatility! For those with gluten allergies, simply swap the buttery round crackers with a gluten-free variety. If you’re cooking for vegetarians, omit the chicken and replace it with sautéed veggies like mushrooms or spinach. This dish can be easily modified to suit various dietary needs while still keeping heartiness in mind.

How can I customize the flavors in my casserole?
Very! You can get creative by adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Another fun idea is to mix in different types of cheese into the filling—mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack can introduce delightful new flavors to your casserole.