Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole
A cozy, budget-friendly casserole inspired by Dolly Parton’s famous 5-ingredient recipes. This version combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, vegetables, and buttery crackers for an easy family dinner with plenty of comforting flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers, crushed
Optional
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish.
2. Combine the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and mixed vegetables.
Add black pepper and garlic powder if using.
Stir until everything is evenly coated.
3. Add the Cheese
Fold in about ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
4. Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the crushed buttery crackers evenly over the top.
Finish with the remaining cheddar cheese.
5. Bake
Bake uncovered for approximately 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted and golden.
For a more deeply browned topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Spoon onto plates and enjoy while warm.
Easy Variations
Turkey Casserole: Replace the chicken with leftover cooked turkey.
Broccoli & Cheddar: Use broccoli instead of mixed vegetables.
Creamy Ranch: Add 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning to the filling.
Extra Cheesy: Add another ½ cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack.
Crunchier Topping: Mix the crushed crackers with 2 tablespoons melted butter before sprinkling them over the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Pair it with:
- Green salad
- Steamed broccoli
- Green beans
- Corn
- Mashed potatoes
- Dinner rolls
Creamy chicken, tender vegetables, melted cheddar, and a buttery crunchy topping make this simple casserole the kind of comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist.