introduction

This is an easy, warm dish that uses five simple ingredients. It cooks fast and fills the kitchen with a mild, comforting smell. You can make it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a simple family meal. If you like quick casseroles, you might also enjoy an easy corn bake like the Paula Deen corn casserole recipe.

why make this recipe

Make this casserole because it is fast, cheap, and tasty. You need little prep. It uses pantry items and cooked chicken, so you can use leftovers or a rotisserie bird. The cracker topping gives it a nice crunch. If you want another no-fuss casserole idea, check a similar comfort dish such as the Paula Deen corn casserole recipe for more inspiration.

how to make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

This recipe is simple. Follow the steps below.

Ingredients :

2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 sleeve (about 30 buttery round crackers, crushed)
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted

Directions :

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until smooth. Spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Make topping: In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with melted butter until coated.
Assemble: Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

how to serve Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Serve warm. This casserole goes well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes. Cut into squares and place on a plate. A little fresh parsley on top adds color.

how to store Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Cover tightly with foil or store in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm, about 15–20 minutes.

tips to make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
Crush crackers in a bag with a rolling pin for even crumbs.
Melt the butter fully so the topping coats the crackers well.
Do not overbake; remove when the top is golden and the center is hot.
For a lighter top, use fewer crackers or swap half the butter for olive oil. Also see another easy casserole idea at Paula Deen corn casserole recipe.

variation (if any)

Add 1 cup of frozen peas or corn to the filling for more veg.
Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for extra richness.
Swap the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different flavor.

FAQs

Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes. Leftover turkey works the same as shredded chicken.

Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free cream soup and gluten-free cracker crumbs.

Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze the baked casserole wrapped tightly, or freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

For the original recipe and more notes, see the full recipe online at Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole on 12 Tomatoes.