Dolly Parton’s Famous 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole: A Comfort Classic Made Simple
Inspired by Dolly Parton’s love for hearty, down-home meals, this 5-ingredient chicken casserole is as comforting as a country song and as simple as home cooking gets. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, preparing a make-ahead dinner, or craving a warm and creamy dish that brings nostalgia to your table, this recipe captures all the charm and coziness of Southern cooking—without the fuss.
Introduction
Dolly Parton has always symbolized warmth, hospitality, and genuine Southern comfort—and her cooking is no exception. While she’s famous worldwide for her voice, her lyrics, and her philanthropy, those who have explored her recipes know she also has a soft spot for wholesome, easy meals anyone can enjoy. One recipe that consistently circulates among fans and home cooks is the iconic 5-ingredient chicken casserole: a creamy, hearty, no-stress dish that tastes like love in a baking dish.
This dish has become popular not only because of its simplicity but also because of its versatility. You don’t need culinary experience, obscure ingredients, or fancy equipment. It’s the kind of recipe suited for busy weeknights, cold winter evenings, potluck gatherings, and especially those moments when you need something warm, filling, and wonderfully familiar.
What makes this recipe stand out is its balance between minimal preparation and rich results. With just five ingredients—most of which you may already have in your pantry—it creates a creamy, savory casserole that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s also highly customizable, making it easy to adapt to your family’s tastes or whatever you have on hand.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need: the ingredients list, step-by-step instructions, serving and storage tips, helpful suggestions, and answers to common questions. By the end, you’ll feel confident creating this comforting dish that channels the spirit of Dolly’s down-home cooking.
Ingredients
Below are the classic five ingredients used to make Dolly Parton’s beloved chicken casserole. These simple items work together to produce a creamy, hearty dish with very little effort:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or cubed; rotisserie chicken works beautifully)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 sleeve buttery crackers (such as Ritz), crushed
- 1/2 cup melted butter
These ingredients come together to form a creamy base with a crunchy, golden topping—one of the hallmarks of satisfying Southern casseroles. If you enjoy experimenting, you’ll be pleased to know this recipe welcomes optional add-ins like broccoli, cheese, or herbs without losing its simplicity.