Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that combines simple ingredients into a warm, creamy, and satisfying meal. Made with tender shredded chicken, rich cream of chicken soup, tangy sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese, this casserole delivers plenty of classic homemade flavor. The buttery cracker topping adds a delicious crunch that perfectly complements the creamy filling underneath.

One of the best things about this easy chicken casserole is how quickly it comes together. With only five main ingredients and minimal preparation, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want a hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply mix the ingredients, spread the mixture into a baking dish, add the crunchy topping, and let the oven do the work. Using rotisserie chicken makes the process even easier and helps you get dinner on the table with less effort.

Serve this delicious casserole straight from the oven for a cozy meal that the whole family can enjoy. It pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans, roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or mashed potatoes for an even heartier dinner. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight meal, feeding a hungry family, or bringing a comforting dish to a potluck, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is a delicious recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You Will Love This Recipe:

Only five ingredients: Simple pantry staples make this recipe easy and budget-friendly.
Quick preparation: Spend less time prepping and more time enjoying dinner with your family.
Creamy and cheesy: Tender chicken, sour cream, and cheddar create a rich, satisfying filling.
Crunchy topping: Buttery crackers add the perfect golden finish.
Family-friendly comfort food: A hearty casserole that’s ideal for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Easy to customize: Add your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own.

Ingredients:

3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 sleeve buttery crackers, like Ritz, crushed (about 1 ½ cups crumbs)

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9 × 9-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers over the top to create a crunchy topping.
Add the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the crackers for extra cheesy goodness.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the top is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving so it can set and become easier to scoop.