This creamy, cheesy, and crispy chicken casserole is a Southern classic inspired by Dolly Parton’s love of simple, hearty meals. With only five ingredients and minimal prep, this comfort food recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry family on a budget.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Only 5 simple ingredients—no complicated prep
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Family-friendly comfort food that’s picky-eater approved
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Budget-conscious and great for meal planning
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Easy to adapt with gluten-free, dairy-free, or keto-friendly swaps
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients:
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2 cups cooked shredded chicken
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Use rotisserie, leftover, or canned chicken for convenience.
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1 can cream of mushroom soup
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Substitute with dairy-free or low-sodium version if preferred.
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1 cup sour cream
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Plant-based sour cream works well for a dairy-free alternative.
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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Choose dairy-free cheese if needed. Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor.
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1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
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Ritz or vegan-friendly crackers both work perfectly.
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Tips and Tricks
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Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
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Add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder for more depth.
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For a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2–3 minutes.
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Double the recipe and freeze half for easy weeknight dinners.
Variations and Customizations
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Low-Carb Option: Replace crackers with crushed pork rinds or almond flour topping.
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Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for canned chickpeas or cooked lentils.
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Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free cream soup and GF crackers.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Pairing Suggestions
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Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
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Pairs well with garlic bread or cornbread for a Southern-style dinner.
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Great with iced tea, lemonade, or white wine.
Storage Instructions
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Microwave individual servings or bake at 325°F until heated through.
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Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Popular Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the fridge and bake just before serving.
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What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Try cream of chicken, cream of celery, or a homemade roux-based white sauce.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and makes for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Print
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a quick, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, creamy soup, tangy sour cream, melty cheese, and a buttery cracker topping, this fuss-free casserole delivers hearty, home-cooked flavor with minimal effort.
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Ingredients
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Cooked Shredded Chicken (2 cups)
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Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can)
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Sour Cream (1 cup)
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Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups)
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Buttery Crackers, Crushed (1 sleeve)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheese. Mix until well combined.
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Spread the mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
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Top with crushed crackers, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top.
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and golden on top.
Notes
This recipe is a favorite for frugal families, busy professionals, and even college students.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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