Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole

This hearty Dolly Parton 5Ingredient Casserole blends tender shredded chicken with creamy sour cream, sharp cheddar, and a golden buttery cracker topping. It bakes up bubbling and golden, offering a comforting homemade flavor with Southern warmth. Simple to prepare and budgetfriendly, this casserole is perfect for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. I love how versatile it is, allowing easy swaps of cheeses or vegetables without losing that cozy vibe.

I first made this when a friend gave me leftover rotisserie chicken and we needed dinner fast. Now my family lights up whenever they smell it baking, making it a go to comfort food in our home.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: juicy rotisserie or poached chicken breasts provide a tender and flavorful base
• Cream of chicken soup: choose a quality brand for a rich and thick sauce
• Sour cream: adds creamy tanginess. Full fat brings the best texture
• Shredded cheddar cheese: block cheese melts best and has a sharp flavor that shines
• Buttery crackers: crushed Ritz crackers add a crispy golden topping and buttery richness
• Optional black pepper or dried parsley: adds a subtle kick and pretty color

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure even baking. Lightly grease your casserole dish with butter or spray to keep the dish from sticking and create those irresistible crispy edges.

Mix the Filling:

In a large bowl combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon or spatula so everything is evenly coated and creamy with no lumps of soup or clumps of cheese.

Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the chicken mixture to your prepared baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the surface so the topping bakes up evenly golden.

Add the Cracker Topping:

Place your buttery crackers in a sealable bag and crush them with a rolling pin or hands until you have even crumbs. Sprinkle these crumbs evenly over the surface to create a crunchy golden layer.

Bake Until Golden:

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for bubbling at the edges and a deep golden color on top. This indicates the casserole’s center is hot and creamy while the topping is crisp and inviting.

Let It Rest:

Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps the casserole firm up for easier and cleaner slicing.

I am always amazed at how the cracker topping steals the show. My kids love helping to crush and sprinkle the crackers which brings back fond memories of helping in Grandma’s kitchen and smelling melted cheese signaling cozy family time.

Storage Tips

Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering. Store leftovers in the refrigerator wrapped tightly in foil or in an airtight container for up to four days. To reheat, warm single portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil in a moderate oven to keep the topping crisp.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have rotisserie chicken, shredded cooked turkey works beautifully. Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Cream of mushroom soup can be used in place of cream of chicken for a subtle earthy note. Gluten free crackers and soups also make this recipe friendly for special diets.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with something fresh and green like a simple salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with mashed potatoes or warm dinner rolls that soak up the creamy sauce deliciously.

This easy casserole is a reliable family favorite that comes together quickly and delivers big comfort. Customize it to suit your tastes and enjoy.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, shredded turkey works just as well and blends smoothly with the creamy ingredients.

→ How do I keep the cracker topping crisp?

Sprinkle the crackers just before baking and avoid covering the dish to maintain a golden, crunchy texture.

→ Can it be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely, assemble it and refrigerate up to a day before baking. Add the cracker topping right before heating.

→ What variations can I try?

Try swapping cheddar for Monterey Jack or Colby cheese, add peas or carrots, or sprinkle cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, assemble without the topping, freeze, and add crackers before baking. Thaw overnight for best results.

→ Which side dishes go well with this casserole?

Serve alongside a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes, or warm bread rolls for a balanced meal.