If you are searching for comfort food that comes together effortlessly yet brings a rewarding, creamy delight to your dinner table, look no further than Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe. This dish is a harmonious blend of tender shredded chicken, velvety cream of chicken soup, tangy sour cream, and the irresistible crunch of buttery crackers on top. It’s a nostalgic casserole that feels like a warm hug, perfect for family dinners or anytime you want to impress without stress. The beauty lies in its simplicity, packing flavor and texture with only five ingredients and minimal prep time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The charm of this recipe is in its simplicity—five basic ingredients that combine to create an unforgettable flavor profile and luscious texture. Each one plays a vital role in building the casserole’s comforting character.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds moisture and flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: This offers the creamy base and savory richness everyone loves in a casserole.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and smooth texture, balancing the richness perfectly.
- 1 sleeve (about 30) buttery round crackers, crushed: For that signature crispy, golden topping that contrasts so wonderfully with the creamy layers beneath.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: When combined with the crackers, it ensures a rich, golden crunch that makes every bite a delight.
How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep your casserole from sticking and to make serving easier. Getting this step right sets the stage for a perfectly cooked casserole with easy cleanup afterward.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Chicken Base
In a large bowl, stir together the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until well blended and smooth. This mixture forms the heart of the recipe, combining creamy richness and hearty protein in every spoonful.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture in the Dish
Once mixed, evenly spread the chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out with your spoon or spatula to ensure even cooking and consistent flavor throughout.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. This step is crucial—each cracker piece should be fully coated for maximum crunch and flavor when it bakes.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken layer in an even layer. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with a golden-brown, crispy topping that sings comfort.
Step 6: Let It Rest Before Serving
After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes. This helps it set slightly, making it easier to serve while still warm and wonderfully inviting.
How to Serve Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate this cozy casserole effortlessly. Chopped fresh parsley or chives bring a pop of green and a hint of freshness that complements the creamy base. A light sprinkle of paprika can add a subtle smoky note and brighten the appearance.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides that don’t compete but enhance the dish’s comforting flavors. Steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette, or buttery mashed potatoes are fantastic options to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider making individual servings in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets, perfect for special occasions or family dinners. Layer with extra cheese underneath the cracker topping for a gooier texture or add a handful of sautéed mushrooms into the chicken mixture for more depth of flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the casserole cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it an excellent option for easy weekday lunches or leftovers.
Freezing
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe container. It will maintain quality for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes. This method helps preserve the casserole’s texture—keeping that crunchy topping crispy and the creamy filling perfectly smooth.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?
Absolutely! You can cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs if you prefer. Just make sure they’re fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients to maintain food safety and flavor.
Is there a substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you want to avoid canned soup, you can make a simple homemade cream sauce using butter, flour, milk, and chicken broth, which keeps the dish fresh without losing its creamy charm.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Adding frozen peas, chopped broccoli, or sautéed mushrooms can boost the nutrition and add texture, making the casserole even heartier and colorful.
What type of crackers work best for the topping?
Buttery round crackers provide the classic texture and flavor. However, buttery crackers like Ritz or even buttery saltine crackers will work well to create that golden, crunchy topping.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, it’s one of the best casseroles for make-ahead meals. Freeze in airtight containers and reheat in the oven to keep the texture just right. The cracker topping holds up beautifully after reheating.
Final Thoughts
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe is a shining example of how uncomplicated ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels special every time. It’s a reliable favorite that brings warmth, ease, and deliciousness into your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this casserole is sure to become a beloved classic on your table. Give it a try—you might just find your new go-to comfort food!
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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 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 combining shredded chicken, creamy soup, and sour cream topped with a buttery cracker crust. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole bakes to golden perfection and serves a crowd with minimal effort and ingredients.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 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 dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix main filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare topping: In a separate bowl, combine the crushed buttery round crackers with the melted unsalted butter. Mix until all the cracker crumbs are coated with butter.
- Add topping to casserole: Evenly sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture over the chicken and sauce layer in the baking dish, creating a crunchy topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cracker topping turns a golden brown color.
- Cool and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience and flavor, but any cooked shredded chicken works well.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute the crackers with gluten-free buttery crackers.
- You can add a pinch of black pepper or herbs like parsley for added flavor if desired.
- Make sure to crush the crackers finely for an even topping texture.
- This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
