Save
Dolly Parton’s Famous 5-Ingredient Casserole is pure comfort in a single dish. This recipe is my go-to when I need something filling creamy and downright easy on a weeknight. A handful of basic ingredients work together into a cozy meal that everyone reaches for seconds.
The first time I brought this casserole to a holiday get-together it vanished before I could even sit down. Now my friends text for the recipe every winter.
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: Two cups of tender rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken ensures a hearty base and rich flavor. Choose well-roasted chicken with golden skin for best results
- Cream of chicken soup: This creates the creamy foundation. Go for a high-quality canned soup or your favorite brand for a richer taste
- Sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the whole casserole. Full-fat sour cream makes it extra velvety
- Frozen mixed vegetables: A 16-ounce bag of peas carrots and corn brings color sweetness and nutrition straight from the freezer to the dish. Look for quality brands with vibrant colorful veggies
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Two cups divided for mixing in and for that glorious melted cheesy top. Sharp cheddar adds punchy flavor so grate your own if you can
- Crushed Ritz crackers: Optional golden buttery topping for crunch. If you use them pick a fresh sleeve with intact crackers for the best crumble
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit and generously grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish. This keeps the casserole from sticking and makes serving a breeze
- Mix the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl stir together the shredded chicken cream of chicken soup sour cream frozen vegetables and one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure everything is evenly coated for creamy bites in every spoonful
- Assemble and Bake:
- Evenly spread your filling into the prepared baking dish with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese across the top for a bubbly golden finish. If you are using Ritz crackers scatter the crushed crackers in an even layer over the cheese for an irresistible crunchy topping
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the dish on the middle oven rack and bake uncovered for thirty to thirty five minutes. The edges should be bubbling and the top should be lightly golden with melted cheese and crispy crackers
- Cool and Serve:
- Take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for five minutes so the filling can set. This makes serving easier and keeps the creamy layers intact. Add chopped fresh parsley if you want a pop of color
Save
My favorite part of this dish has always been the surprise crunch of Ritz crackers against that gooey cheesy top. Growing up my grandmother always let each grandchild add our own cracker layer the best part of making it together.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave in thirty second bursts until hot. For best texture reheat in the oven covered with foil at three hundred twenty five degrees until warmed through.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap the shredded chicken for leftover turkey after holidays. Greek yogurt works in place of sour cream if you want a lighter tang. For a gluten free option use gluten free cream soup and crackers or skip the topping altogether.
Serving Suggestions
Serve big squares of casserole with a crisp green salad for a full meal. A side of warm rolls or fresh fruit makes it extra homey. This casserole also travels well so it is perfect for potlucks and sharing with friends in need.
Save
Cultural Context
This casserole is a Southern classic that embodies comfort and resourcefulness. Hearty casseroles have long been staples in country kitchens thanks to their ability to feed a crowd with simple wholesome ingredients. Dolly Parton’s cozy take on this tradition is as warm and welcoming as her music.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken for this dish?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time since it is already cooked and flavorful.
- → Can I substitute other vegetables?
Certainly! Fresh or different frozen vegetables like broccoli or green beans work well in place of the standard mix.
- → Is it possible to make this casserole ahead?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish in advance, cover, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, cool completely before freezing. Thaw and reheat in the oven for best results, though the cracker topping may soften.
- → What toppings work besides crackers?
Crushed cornflakes, fried onions, or breadcrumbs can be used instead of Ritz crackers for a crunchy top layer.