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Some nights I need a meal that feels like a big warm hug but leaves me with barely any dishes. This Dolly Parton 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole has been my go-to whenever I want cheesy comfort and quick clean-up. It is the kind of dish my family asks for when the weather turns chilly or when someone needs a little cheering up.
When I made this for my book club everyone asked for the recipe and not a crumb was left in the pan by the end of the night
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken: this is the protein backbone of the casserole using rotisserie or leftover chicken makes it extra easy look for chicken that is moist and tender
- Cream of chicken soup: this brings all the ingredients together for that classic creamy texture choose a brand with good flavor or make your own for a more homemade touch
- Sour cream: adds a tangy richness choose full fat for extra creaminess or swap for plain Greek yogurt if you prefer
- Frozen mixed vegetables: add color nutrition and texture peas carrots and corn are the classic mix but feel free to experiment with any combination look for brightly colored frozen veggies with no freezer burn
- Shredded cheddar cheese: divided for the creamy filling and a melted bubbly topping use sharp cheddar for more flavor and shred it yourself for the best melt
- Crushed Ritz crackers: optional but they add that buttery crunch on top I love using these for that unmistakable casserole finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a nine by thirteen inch baking dish thoroughly so nothing sticks and you get that perfect scoop every time
- Mix the Casserole Filling:
- Stir together the shredded chicken cream of chicken soup sour cream frozen vegetables and half of the shredded cheddar cheese in a large mixing bowl everything should be evenly coated and well combined
- Fill the Baking Dish:
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly into your prepared dish smoothing the top for even baking
- Finish with Toppings:
- Scatter the remaining cheddar cheese across the surface then add your layer of crushed Ritz crackers if you like extra crunch
- Bake to Bubbling Perfection:
- Slide the casserole into a three hundred fifty degree oven bake for thirty to thirty five minutes until the casserole edges bubble and the top turns golden and cheesy the crackers should look crisp not soggy
- Rest Before Serving:
- Let your casserole sit for five minutes before serving this helps it set a bit so each serving scoops up neatly a sprinkle of fresh parsley is a nice touch
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I always look forward to the cheesy crispy top it reminds me of the casseroles my grandma used to make the smell alone brings everyone running to the kitchen even before it cools
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days This casserole reheats best in the oven for about fifteen minutes at three hundred fifty degrees but the microwave will work in a pinch If you want to freeze it wrap tightly before baking and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken on hand Leftover turkey or ham slides right in Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for extra tang or if you want to cut a bit of richness Gluten free friends swap in gluten free cream of chicken soup and crackers or skip the topping altogether For veggie swaps try a frozen broccoli blend spinach or even green beans
Serving Suggestions
Pair it with a fresh green salad or a quick batch of garlic bread for a heartier meal I have even served it over steamed rice for especially hungry crowds When I am hosting friends I offer extra hot sauce and a side bowl of pickled jalapenos to give each plate a kick
Cultural Context
Casseroles like this one are deeply Southern and bring back memories of church potlucks and Sunday suppers Dolly Parton knows comfort food and the simplicity of five affordable ingredients speaks to how these dishes became beloved in busy American homes
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack would be delicious substitutes for cheddar cheese. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination.
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cracker topping just before baking to prevent it from getting soggy.
- → What if I don't have cream of chicken soup?
You can make a substitute by combining chicken broth, milk, and a thickening agent like cornstarch or flour. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
- → Can I add any other vegetables?
Definitely! Broccoli florets, green beans, spinach, or mushrooms would be great additions to the frozen mixed vegetables. Just ensure they are chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- → How do I prevent the cracker topping from burning?
If the cracker topping starts to brown too quickly, tent the casserole with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
- → Can this be made vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with plant-based chicken alternatives, or by using more vegetables and a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans for added protein. Ensure the cream of chicken soup is vegetarian-friendly, or use a mushroom soup alternative.