Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole : irresistible

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Looking for a feel-good dinner that doesn’t require a shopping cart full of ingredients or hours of prep? Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole is here to save the day—warm, creamy, and bursting with Southern charm. This dish is the culinary equivalent of a big ol’ hug, especially when life gets busy (because when isn’t it?). Whether you’re wrangling kids, working late, or just not in the mood for a complicated dinner, this recipe checks all the right boxes.

So slip on your coziest slippers, preheat that oven, and get ready for a dish that’s part casserole, part comfort, and 100% Dolly-approved delicious.

Why You’ll Love Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole

First of all, five ingredients. Five! That’s fewer than the number of streaming services I forgot I subscribed to last year.

And they’re pantry-friendly, budget-conscious, and all-out tasty. This recipe brings together the creamy tang of sour cream, the rich flavor of cheddar, and a buttery cracker topping that crisps up like a dream. Add in chicken and soup, and you’ve got yourself a meal that tastes like a Sunday dinner but fits into a Monday schedule.

Ingredients

Let’s break down the cast of characters in this Southern comfort show:

3 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works like a charm!)
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds a nice punch!)
1 sleeve buttery round crackers (like Ritz), crushed

That’s it. Seriously. You probably have most of this in your kitchen right now.

How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and prep.

Set your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. No need to get fancy—just a quick spray or swipe of oil or butter does the trick.

Step 2: Mix the magic.

In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar. Give it a good stir until it’s all creamy and well-blended.

Step 3: Into the dish it goes.

Spoon the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 4: Add the cheesy, crunchy topping.

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, then add your crushed buttery crackers. This step? This is where the magic happens. That cracker topping crisps up into golden perfection.

Step 5: Bake it till bubbly.

Pop the casserole into the oven for about 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sides are bubbling like a cozy pot of joy.

Step 6: Serve and swoon.

Let it cool for a few minutes (if you can wait!) and then dish it up. Serve with a side salad, green beans, or just a big ol’ spoon.

Aneta’s Tip from the Kitchen

I’ve made this Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole for everything from weeknight dinners to potlucks, and let me tell you—there are never leftovers. One little trick I love? Add a pinch of garlic powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix if you want to spice things up. Also, if you’re feeling extra Southern, swap in crushed potato chips or cornbread crumbles for the cracker topping. Dolly wouldn’t mind a little twist, I promise.

Close-up of Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole topped with melted cheddar and crushed buttery crackers.

A Little Story From My Table to Yours

I first made Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole on a rainy Tuesday when the fridge looked sad and the kids were even sadder about the idea of “just soup.” One bite in, and everyone perked up like flowers after a storm. Now it’s on regular rotation—especially when life calls for something simple, nostalgic, and soul-warming.

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole served in a white bowl with melted cheese and crushed crackers on top.

FAQs About Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole

Can I substitute the chicken?

Yes! Turkey works great, especially around the holidays. You could also try canned chicken in a pinch—just drain it well.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble everything the night before and bake it the next day. Just store it covered in the fridge and add an extra 5–10 minutes of bake time.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats well in the microwave, but the topping is best when reheated in the oven or toaster oven.

Can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes! Just use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free crackers. Boom—comfort food for everyone.

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking for your family, your neighbors, or just yourself (no shame in the solo casserole game!), Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole brings hearty flavor and heartfelt comfort with every bite. It’s fast, fabulous, and as warm as a country song on a cold night.

Explore More Comforting Chicken Favorites

If Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole has you swooning for more cozy, flavorful meals with minimal fuss, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re craving another crowd-pleasing casserole or looking for something with a fresh twist, here are some hand-picked recipes that pair perfectly with this dish—or stand strong all on their own:

For another cheesy, soul-warming casserole that brings the Southern comfort vibes, try the Creamy Million Dollar Chicken Casserole.
Want to stick with Dolly’s style? You’ll love her Chicken and Stuffing Casserole—it’s like Thanksgiving dinner without the stress.
Craving something with a little kick? The Sweet Chili Chicken Marinade adds bold, tangy flavor with minimal effort.
If you’re in the mood for a cozy twist on pasta night, don’t miss the Creamy Smoky White Cheddar Honey Butter Chicken Pasta Skillet—it’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for a busy weeknight.

Bookmark your faves, share with a friend, and keep the comfort food magic going all season long! Which one are you trying next?