Let me introduce you to the magic that is the Dolly Parton 5-ingredient casserole simple, comforting, and downright delightful! I first stumbled upon this gem during one of those crazy weeknights when my toddler was clinging to my leg and the dog was barking at the mailman. You know those days when you need dinner to practically make itself? That’s when Dolly’s simple genius saved me.
Now I keep this recipe on speed dial because it’s just so darn reliable. Five pantry staples – that’s it! – transform into the coziest, most comforting dish you can imagine. The way the creamy chicken base melds with that golden, buttery cracker topping? Pure magic. And the best part? It’s nearly impossible to mess up (trust me, I’ve tried – my distracted stirring still turned out delicious).
What I love most is how this casserole feels like a warm hug from Dolly herself. It’s got that same down-home charm she’s famous for – no fuss, all heart. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need leftovers for lunch tomorrow, this 5-ingredient wonder delivers every single time.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
Listen, I know what you’re thinking – another casserole recipe? But this one’s different, y’all. Here’s why it’s become my go-to weeknight lifesaver:
- Five ingredients – that’s all! No hunting for obscure spices or fancy cheeses. Just pantry staples that come together in minutes.
- Rotisserie chicken shortcut makes it even easier (Dolly would approve of working smarter, not harder).
- The crispy, buttery cracker topping gives that perfect crunch against the creamy filling – pure comfort food magic.
- It’s forgiving as can be – swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge and it still turns out delicious.
- Leftovers (if you have any!) taste even better the next day when the flavors have really settled in.
Honestly, this Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole is like getting a big hug from Dolly herself – simple, satisfying, and full of heart.

Ingredients for Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
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Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A simple and delicious 5-ingredient casserole inspired by Dolly Parton. Easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream.
- Spread mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Add crushed crackers as the final layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for extra flavor.
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup for a variation.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Now let’s talk ingredients – and don’t you worry, this list is so simple you might already have everything in your kitchen right now! Here’s what you’ll need to make Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole come to life:
- 2 cups cooked chicken – shredded (I always grab a rotisserie chicken from the store – the seasoned one adds extra flavor!)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup—undiluted, because we’re going all in on that rich, creamy goodness.
- 1 cup sour cream – full-fat works best here for maximum creaminess
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese – I like sharp cheddar for more flavor, but mild works too
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers – crushed (Ritz are my favorite for that perfect golden topping)
See? I told you this was simple! Now let’s get cooking.
How to Make Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
Alright, let’s get this show on the road! Making Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole is easier than remembering the words to “Jolene” – and just as satisfying. Here’s exactly how I put it together every time:
Step 1: Prep the Chicken Mixture
Before anything else, get that oven preheating to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab your biggest mixing bowl. I like to use one with high sides because things can get a little wild when you’re stirring!
Dump in your shredded chicken, that glorious can of the can the can the can the can the can, no diluting!), and the sour cream. Now here’s my secret – mix it with a wooden spoon instead of a whisk. You want everything well combined, but not whipped into submission. The texture should be like thick, creamy chicken salad – no dry spots, but still with some body to it.
Step 2: Layer and Bake
Grease up a 9×9-inch baking dish (butter works best for flavor, but cooking spray does in a pinch). Spread your chicken mixture evenly across the bottom – I use the back of a spoon to smooth it out nice and flat.
Now for the cheese! Sprinkle that shredded cheddar evenly over the top – don’t skimp! This is what makes that gorgeous golden crust. Last but not least, crumble those crackers straight over the cheese for that golden, crispy finish. I put them in a bag and give them a few good whacks with a rolling pin – very therapeutic after a long day!
Pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling like crazy and the topping is golden brown. If you’re not sure, give the dish a little jiggle – the center should be set but still slightly jiggly. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving (this is the hardest part – the smell will drive you crazy!).
And there you have it – Dolly’s magic in under an hour! The creamy chicken underneath that crispy, cheesy topping is pure comfort food heaven.

Tips for the Perfect Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
After making this Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole more times than I can count (my family begs for it weekly!), I’ve picked up some tricks to make it absolutely foolproof:
- Fresh crackers are key – that sleeve sitting in your pantry for months? Toss it! Stale crackers won’t give you that perfect golden crunch.
- Let it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking – I know it’s hard to wait, but this helps the filling set so it doesn’t ooze everywhere when you serve it.
- Rotisserie chicken juices – if you’re using store-bought, don’t drain all the juices! A little extra moisture makes the filling extra luscious.
- Bake on the middle rack to prevent the topping from burning before the center heats through.
Follow these simple tips, and you’ll have a casserole worthy of Dolly’s own kitchen table!
Variations on Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
And don’t be shy—this Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole loves a little personality! Here are my favorite ways to mix it up when I’m feeling adventurous (or just cleaning out the fridge):
- Cream of mushroom soup instead of chicken for an earthier flavor – my mushroom-loving husband goes wild for this version
- Leftover turkey works beautifully after Thanksgiving – just add a pinch of poultry seasoning to wake up the flavors
- Pepper jack cheese gives it a nice kick if you like things spicy (Dolly would approve of this bold move!)
- Crushed cornflakes make a fun alternative to crackers – extra crunchy and slightly sweet

Serving Suggestions for Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
This Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole is a meal all on its own, but here’s how I like to round it out for a complete Dolly-worthy dinner:
- s through the richness perfectly
- Steamed green beans or broccoli add some fresh crunch
- For true Southern charm, serve with buttery cornbread – Dolly would insist!
Honestly though? A big scoop straight from the dish with a smile is serving suggestion enough!
Storage and Reheating
Now let’s talk leftovers – though in my house, we rarely have any! This casserole keeps like a dream. Just cover it tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container, and it’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. Want to freeze it? No problem! Wrap individual portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months – perfect for those “I don’t wanna cook” nights.
When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 20 minutes for fridge-cold, 30-40 from frozen). The microwave works in a pinch, but the oven keeps that cracker topping nice and crispy. Just add a fresh sprinkle of cheese on top before reheating for extra oomph!
Nutritional Information
Now, I’m no nutritionist, but here’s the scoop on what you’re getting in each generous serving of this Dolly-approved casserole (based on my kitchen scale and a whole lot of taste-testing!):
Per serving: About 320 calories, 18g fat (8g saturated), 20g protein, and 22g carbs. Now remember – these numbers can change depending on your ingredients. Used low-fat sour cream? That’ll tweak it. Extra cheese? Well, we won’t judge!
The important thing is that this casserole fills you up with real, comforting food – just like Dolly would want it. Everything in moderation, including moderation, right?
FAQ About Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole
I get asked about this casserole more than Dolly gets asked about her wigs! Let’s tackle some of the most common casserole questions I get in my kitchen:
What is in Dolly Parton’s 5 ingredient casserole?
Dolly Parton 5-ingredient casserole is all about simplicity and comfort. The classic version usually includes shredded rotisserie chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, Ritz crackers, and melted butter. To make it, you just mix the chicken, soup, and sour cream together, spread it in a baking dish, and then top it with a buttery, crushed Ritz cracker topping. After a quick bake, you get a creamy, savory casserole with a golden, crunchy crust.This is the go-to dish for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something cozy with zero fuss.Plus, you can easily add your own twist—like a sprinkle of cheese or a handful of frozen veggies—if you want to make it your own. It’s no wonder this easy casserole is a favorite in so many Southern kitchens!
What makes Dolly Parton’s casserole so popular?
Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole is a hit for a few big reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy—just five simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. That means less time shopping and prepping, and more time enjoying a comforting meal. Second, it’s super versatile. You can use leftover chicken or turkey, swap in different soups, or add veggies and cheese to suit your family’s tastes. The creamy filling and buttery cracker topping are a classic Southern combo that’s hard to resist. Plus, there’s just something special about a recipe with Dolly’s name on it! She’s known for her warmth and down-home charm, and this casserole feels like a hug in a dish. It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you want a little taste of Southern comfort.It’s no surprise this one’s earned a permanent spot in so many family kitchens.
What is Dolly Parton’s favorite dessert?
Dolly Parton has a well-known sweet tooth, and one of her all-time favorite desserts is Southern banana pudding. She’s mentioned in interviews that she loves this classic treat, especially when it’s made the old-fashioned way with layers of vanilla wafers, creamy homemade pudding, and plenty of sliced bananas. Sometimes it’s topped with meringue or whipped cream for an extra special touch. Dolly has also said she enjoys chess pie and coconut cake, but banana pudding seems to hold a special place in her heart. It’s a dessert that’s simple, nostalgic, and totally Southern—just like Dolly herself! If you ever want to channel a little Dolly in your own kitchen, whipping up a big bowl of banana pudding is a great way to do it. It’s sure to bring smiles all around.
What does Dolly Parton have for breakfast?
Dolly Parton keeps her breakfast pretty classic and down-to-earth. She’s shared that she loves a good Southern breakfast, often starting her day with scrambled eggs, sausage, and biscuits. Sometimes she’ll have gravy or a side of bacon, and she’s a big fan of stone-ground grits, too. Dolly has also mentioned that she enjoys a slice of toast with jelly or preserves, and she’s not above having a donut or a muffin if she’s in the mood for something sweet. Coffee is a must for her—she likes it strong and black. Even though she’s a superstar, Dolly’s breakfast choices are all about comfort and tradition. She believes in starting the day with something hearty and satisfying, which gives her the energy to tackle her busy schedule. It’s a breakfast routine that’s as warm and welcoming as Dolly herself!
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked?
Absolutely! Just poach 2 chicken breasts in simmering water for 15 minutes until cooked through, then shred. The bonus? You can use that flavorful poaching liquid to thin out the mixture if it seems too thick.
How long can you keep this casserole in the fridge?
It stays delicious for 3-4 days when stored properly. The crackers might soften a bit, but a quick broil brings back that golden crunch!
Can I make it ahead and freeze it?
You bet! Assemble everything except the cracker topping, freeze, then add fresh crackers when you’re ready to bake. You can freeze it for up to 2 months—just tack on an extra 10 minutes of baking time when reheating.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
Buttery round crackers work best, but in a pinch, crushed saltines, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed potato chips make fun alternatives. Dolly would say “the show must go on!”

Final Thoughts
Well, there you have it, friends – my absolute obsession with Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Casserole! I hope you’ll give it a try and let it become your new weeknight hero too. When you do, come back and tell me all about it – I love hearing your kitchen stories almost as much as I love this recipe. Now go channel your inner Dolly and whip up some comfort food magic!
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