Just 5 Cozy Ingredients for Simple, Cheesy & Country-Style Comfort
Ready to bring some Southern comfort to your dinner table? Get your casserole dish ready and let’s dive into one of the easiest, coziest recipes you’ll ever make. Dolly’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole is comfort food at its finest—and it’s waiting for you to enjoy it tonight!
Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious, hassle-free dinner that feels like a warm hug from grandma’s kitchen, Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the answer. This no-fuss, ultra-comforting dish brings the creamy richness of classic casseroles with just five pantry staples and minimal prep.
Inspired by the legendary Dolly Parton’s Southern charm, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, church potlucks, or anytime you want a taste of home. It’s cheesy, creamy, crunchy, and loaded with the comforting flavors you love—without spending hours in the kitchen.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just learning your way around a casserole dish, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get cooking—it’s time to treat yourself to some down-home goodness!
Tools Needed, Prep Details & Serving Size
Before you get started, gather these basic kitchen tools:
Tools Required:
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×9-inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups (optional for accuracy)
- Oven
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 25–30 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 40–45 minutes
Serves: 4–6 people
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or even as a simple make-ahead option for entertaining.
Ingredients
All you need are five simple ingredients—many of which you may already have on hand:
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed
That’s it! Just five ingredients to create a satisfying, soul-warming casserole that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a small pat of butter. This will help keep the casserole from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Chicken Base
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir the ingredients until they’re well-blended. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and uniform—this is your rich, savory base.
Step 3: Layer the First Half
Spoon half of the chicken mixture into the baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure to reach the edges so the filling cooks uniformly.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken mixture. This layer will melt beautifully during baking, infusing the casserole with cheesy richness.
Step 5: Layer the Rest of the Chicken
Next, spread the remaining chicken mixture on top of the cheese. Smooth it out so it covers the entire surface.
Step 6: Finish With More Cheese
Top the casserole with the rest of the shredded cheddar cheese. If you love cheese, feel free to add a little extra—it only makes the dish better!
Step 7: Add the Cracker Topping
Evenly sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers across the top. This adds a delicious, golden crunch that balances the creamy filling underneath.
Step 8: Bake It Up
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Your kitchen will smell like pure comfort.
Step 9: Let It Rest
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle and makes serving easier.
Tips for Recipe Success
Want to ensure this dish turns out perfect every time? Here are a few smart tips:
- Use rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and convenience.
- Don’t over-crush the crackers—a little texture gives a satisfying crunch.
- Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and slice easily.
- Add seasoning if you like: a pinch of black pepper, garlic powder, or paprika adds depth.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings—just use a 9×13-inch dish and bake 5–10 minutes longer.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is filling on its own, but if you’d like to round out your meal, try pairing it with:
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
- Fresh garden salad with a vinaigrette
- Cornbread or fluffy dinner rolls
- Sweet tea and pecan pie for a full Southern supper
Storage Tips
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until hot.
Freezer:
This casserole is freezer-friendly. Assemble the entire dish (unbaked), wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Reheating Tip:
For a crisp cracker topping, avoid microwaving the whole dish. Reheat in the oven instead to retain texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes! This recipe is flexible. You can use grilled chicken, poached chicken, or even canned chicken in a pinch. Just be sure to shred or dice it into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. Add an extra 5 minutes to the bake time if it’s going straight from fridge to oven.
3. What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you’re out of cream of chicken soup or prefer a different flavor, try cream of mushroom or cream of celery. For a homemade option, whip up a quick roux-based sauce with butter, flour, chicken broth, and cream.
4. Is there a replacement for sour cream?
Yes—plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute. It provides the same tangy creaminess and works perfectly in this recipe.
5. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely. Mix in frozen peas and carrots, cooked broccoli, corn, or green beans to sneak in some extra nutrients. This is a great way to stretch the casserole and make it even heartier.
Conclusion
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole is everything we love about country cooking—simple, satisfying, and full of love. Whether you’re short on time, feeding a hungry family, or just craving something warm and familiar, this dish hits all the right notes.
From the creamy chicken base to the melty cheese and crispy cracker topping, each bite delivers old-fashioned comfort with modern-day ease. And the best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to make it happen.
So, preheat your oven, grab those five ingredients, and treat yourself to a Southern classic that’s sure to become a new favorite. Dolly would be proud.
Now it’s your turn—make it tonight and taste what down-home comfort is all about.
