Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Comfort Chicken Casserole

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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Comfort Chicken Casserole
A cozy, creamy Southern classic that hits all the right notes — just like Dolly herself.

Who else loves a good, hearty casserole that comes together with minimal effort and maximum flavor? Especially when it’s inspired by the Queen of Country herself, Dolly Parton! This easy 5-ingredient casserole is pure comfort food — creamy, cheesy, buttery, and downright irresistible. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need something warm and satisfying without all the fuss.

 Why You’ll Love This Casserole

• Only 5 ingredients! Simple, budget-friendly, and pantry-ready.
• Ultra-creamy texture from the sour cream and soup base.
• Golden, buttery topping that adds the perfect crunch.
• Crowd-pleaser — everyone goes back for seconds!
• Perfect for any night when you need comfort without complication.

 Equipment

• 9x13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula or spoon
• Oven
• Measuring cups

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie works great!)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 sleeve buttery cracker rounds (like Ritz), crushed

 Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Combine Creamy Goodness
In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until well blended.

3. Add Cheese
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture.

4. Assemble
Spread the creamy mixture evenly in your prepared baking dish.

5. Top It Off
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Add the crushed buttery crackers on top for that perfect golden crunch.

6. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly around the edges and golden on top.

7. Serve & Enjoy
Let cool for a few minutes, then scoop and serve warm.

 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with green beans, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Add a side of biscuits or cornbread for the ultimate Southern comfort meal.
• Top with a drizzle of hot sauce or ranch for extra flavor.

 Tips & Variations

• Add veggies: Mix in cooked peas, corn, or broccoli for color and nutrition.
• Use what you have: Leftover turkey works just as well as chicken.
• Make it ahead: Assemble early, refrigerate, then bake before dinner.
• Want extra crunch? Toss the cracker crumbs with melted butter before topping.

 Storage

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F until hot.

 FAQ

Q: Can I use another soup flavor?
A: Yes! Cream of mushroom or cream of celery works beautifully.

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Definitely — it keeps it creamy with a lighter twist.

Q: Can I make it in advance?
A: Absolutely. Prepare the casserole, cover, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Comfort Chicken Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and crunchy — pure Southern comfort in every bite.

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Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
• 1 sleeve buttery crackers crushed

Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• mixing bowls
• Spatula or Spoon
• Oven
• measuring cups

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13-inch dish.
2. Mix chicken, soup, and sour cream in a bowl.
3. Fold in 1 cup cheddar cheese.
4. Spread mixture evenly in dish.
5. Sprinkle remaining cheese and top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Cool slightly and serve warm.

Notes

Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.