Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a comforting dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness. Imagine pulling a golden-brown casserole from the oven, the aroma wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish, with its creamy filling and crunchy topping, makes for a perfect centerpiece for a cozy family dinner or a delightful gathering with friends. The simplicity of the ingredients—shredded cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, crushed crackers, and melted butter—means you can whip it up on a busy weeknight or showcase it at your next potluck. It’s a recipe that speaks to the heart, bringing comfort and joy to the table with every bite.
- Why This Recipe Is Worth Your Time
- Main Ingredients
- Tools Needed
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pro Tips for Perfect Casserole
- Serving Ideas and Pairings
- Variations and Swaps
- Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Nutrition Notes
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Is Worth Your Time
This casserole stands out not only for its delightful flavors but also for its ease of preparation. The creamy blend of chicken and soup creates a rich base, while the buttery cracker topping adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the filling. The balance of flavors is exquisite, making each bite a comforting experience reminiscent of Sunday family dinners. The craftsmanship involved here lies in the layering of these elements to achieve a perfect harmony. Each ingredient plays a vital role—chicken provides protein and heartiness, cream of chicken soup adds richness, and sour cream contributes a tangy depth, while the crushed crackers and butter create a golden crust that is simply irresistible. This dish is not just about feeding the family; it’s about creating lasting memories around the table.
Main Ingredients for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
To create this delicious casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: This can be rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. It adds protein and flavor to the dish.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: This serves as the creamy base for the casserole, providing moisture and richness.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy flavor and creaminess that balances the richness of the soup.
- 1 sleeve crushed crackers: These create a crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling, enhancing texture.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: This is mixed with the crushed crackers to help them brown and add flavor.
Tools Needed for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
| Tool | Purpose / what it helps with |
| 9×13-inch baking dish | Ideal size for even cooking and easy serving. |
| Large mixing bowl | For combining the filling ingredients smoothly. |
| Separate mixing bowl | For mixing the cracker topping and melted butter. |
| Spatula | For spreading the filling and topping evenly. |
| Oven mitts | To safely handle the hot baking dish. |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For accurate measurement of ingredients. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
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Now that you have your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the preparation of this delightful casserole. Follow these steps for a dish that will impress your family and friends.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures that your casserole won’t stick and helps achieve a golden crust.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth. You want everything to be well-blended for a consistent flavor throughout. Spread this filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until they are well coated. This mixture will create the crispy topping that adds texture and flavor.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish. Make sure to cover the filling completely for an even bake.
- Bake the casserole in the oven for about 30–35 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping. Keep an eye on the color of the cracker topping; it should be a beautiful golden hue.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This short resting period helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
Pro Tips for Perfect Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
- Use leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken for convenience and flavor.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the filling.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it helps with cutting clean portions.
- Experiment with different types of crackers for a unique flavor profile.
- Ensure the butter is fully melted before mixing with the crackers for an even coating.
- Check for doneness by looking for bubbly edges and a golden crust.
- Feel free to add herbs like thyme or parsley for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Ideas and Pairings
- Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette.
- Pair with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
- Offer a side of cranberry sauce for a sweet contrast to the savory casserole.
- Add some fresh herbs as a garnish for an appealing presentation.
- Serve with warm biscuits or crusty bread to soak up the creamy filling.
- A chilled glass of white wine or iced tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Variations and Swaps for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
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Restaurant-Style Version
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To elevate this dish to a restaurant-level experience, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of sophistication.
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Rustic Home-Cook Version
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For a rustic feel, use homemade cream of chicken soup instead of canned. This allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, making it even more comforting.
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Make-Ahead Version
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Prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
Seasonal Ingredient Version
Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers into the filling for a fresh twist that reflects the season.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through.
- This casserole freezes well; wrap it tightly in foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
Nutrition Notes
This casserole is hearty and satisfying, with a good balance of protein from the chicken and creaminess from the sour cream. While exact nutritional values will depend on the brands and specific ingredients used, a typical serving contains approximately 400–500 calories. To lighten the dish, consider using low-fat sour cream or a reduced-fat cream of chicken soup. However, ensure that the integrity of the dish remains intact by using quality ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
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Can I use frozen chicken for Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
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Yes, you can use frozen chicken; just ensure it’s thoroughly cooked and shredded before adding it to the casserole.
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What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup in Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
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You can use homemade cream of chicken soup or a store-bought alternative such as cream of mushroom soup, if preferred.
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How long does it take to bake Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
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The casserole typically bakes for about 30–35 minutes at 350°F (175°C) or until bubbly and golden brown.
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Can I make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole ahead of time?
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Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
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What side dishes pair well with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
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Simple salads, steamed vegetables, and warm bread are excellent sides that enhance the meal experience.
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Now that you have all the secrets to making Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole, I encourage you to try this delightful dish. It’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest, inviting you to explore the joy of artisan cooking with every satisfying bite. Enjoy crafting this casserole, and let it become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire.
Dolly Parton's Delightful Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth. Spread this filling evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until they are well coated.
- Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer in the baking dish.
- Bake the casserole in the oven for about 30–35 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly with a golden-brown topping.
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
