Why You’ll Love This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Although I’m usually wary of celebrity recipes, this 5-ingredient casserole from Dolly Parton has become my go-to comfort dish for good reason.
It’s ridiculously simple to throw together on busy weeknights, yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken swimming in creamy sauce, all topped with that buttery, crunchy cracker layer? Pure genius.
What I appreciate most is how forgiving this recipe is.
Forgot to thaw chicken? Use rotisserie.
No sour cream? Greek yogurt works too.
And trust me, the leftovers taste even better the next day.
What Ingredients are in Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?
Dolly Parton’s famous casserole proves that sometimes the simplest combinations create the most delicious results. This comfort food classic relies on just five main ingredients that blend together to create something truly magical in the oven.
The genius of this recipe lies in how these basic components transform into a creamy, crunchy, satisfying meal that tastes like it came straight from a Southern grandmother’s kitchen.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (halal rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) halal cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 sleeve (about 30) buttery round crackers, crushed
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted halal butter, melted
When shopping for these ingredients, quality matters even with such a simple list. The rotisserie chicken option saves tremendous time and adds deeper flavor than plain boiled chicken.
And don’t skimp on those buttery crackers—they create that signature golden, crunchy topping that makes this casserole so irresistible.
For those with dietary restrictions, note that this recipe uses halal ingredients, but you can certainly adapt based on what’s available in your local grocery store.
The beauty of Dolly’s recipe is that it welcomes substitutions while still maintaining its comforting essence.
How to Make This Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
Making Dolly Parton’s famous casserole couldn’t be simpler, which is part of its enduring charm. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of halal butter—this prevents sticking and adds a touch more flavor.
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken (that halal rotisserie chicken is a real time-saver here), the entire 10.5 oz can of halal cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of sour cream. Mix these ingredients until they’re smooth and well-incorporated, then spread this creamy mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. The filling should have a consistent texture throughout, with no dry spots or clumps.
Now for the magical topping that makes this casserole so memorable. Take 1 sleeve (about 30) of those buttery round crackers and crush them—not too fine, you want some texture. In a separate bowl, mix your crushed crackers with the ½ cup of melted halal butter until every crumb is nicely coated.
This butter-cracker combination creates that signature golden crust we’re after. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken layer, making sure to cover the entire surface. Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are bubbling gently and that topping has turned a beautiful golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely heavenly.
Allow the finished casserole to rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this brief cooling period helps everything set up properly and prevents burned tongues, which nobody wants at dinner.
The contrast between the crispy, buttery topping and the creamy, savory chicken mixture underneath is what makes this dish so satisfying. Wondering how to serve it? A simple green salad makes the perfect accompaniment, balancing the richness with some fresh crunch.
And the best part? The whole preparation process takes less than 15 minutes before it goes into the oven, making this the perfect weeknight dinner when comfort food is calling your name.
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Substitutions and Variations
While the classic version of this casserole is downright magical, you’ll be happy to know there’s plenty of room for creativity with this flexible recipe.
I often swap turkey for chicken when I’m clearing out Thanksgiving leftovers. Not a fan of cream of chicken soup? Try mushroom or celery instead. For a kick, mix in diced green chilies or jalapeños.
The cracker topping can transform too—I’ve used potato chips, french fried onions, even crushed pretzels in a pinch.
Vegetarians might enjoy substituting chickpeas for the chicken. Just remember, whatever substitutions you make, keep that buttery, creamy foundation intact.
What to Serve with Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
When pairing dishes with Dolly’s famous casserole, I’ve learned that simple sides often work best to complement its rich, creamy flavors. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Trust me, that bright acidity balances everything out.
Steamed veggies like green beans or broccoli add color and nutrition. Can’t go wrong there.
For starch lovers (like myself), some buttery mashed potatoes or crusty bread make the meal complete. Though honestly, the casserole has plenty of comfort built in.
My personal favorite? Tangy coleslaw. Something about that crunch against the creamy casserole just works magic.
Final Thoughts
After trying Dolly Parton’s 5-ingredient casserole for yourself, you’ll understand why this dish has become such a beloved classic.
I’m constantly amazed by how something so simple can taste so comforting.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. Need to feed unexpected guests? This casserole saves the day.
Feeling under the weather? Nothing soothes like these creamy, buttery flavors.
What I love most is how it brings people together around the table. In our busy world, isn’t that what good food should do?
Create a moment to pause, connect, and enjoy each other’s company.
Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth and well-incorporated.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix crushed crackers with melted butter until all crumbs are coated.
- Sprinkle the butter-cracker mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, until edges are bubbling and topping is golden brown.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
