Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole is a simple, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. It’s packed with just a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that come together quickly, making dinner ready in about 30 minutes. The creamy, cheesy base combined with tender chicken and crispy crackers on top makes it a total crowd-pleaser.
I love how this casserole is so forgiving and fast. When I’m short on time but want something hearty, this recipe always steps up. What’s great is you don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients or prep—just enough to layer flavors and textures that make everyone smile at the table.
My favorite way to serve this casserole is with a simple side salad or some steamed veggies to keep things fresh and light. It’s one of those dinners that feels special without a lot of effort, and I always find myself going back for seconds. Plus, leftovers taste pretty amazing too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here—already cooked and full of flavor. You can also use leftover chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch. For a vegetarian twist, swap it with cooked mushrooms or beans.
Condensed Soup: Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup adds creaminess and depth. If you want a lighter option, you can use a homemade white sauce or a dairy-free cream soup alternative.
Sour Cream: It gives a nice tang and richness. Greek yogurt can work as a healthier substitute, just keep the same amount and mix well.
Cooked Rice: Regular white rice is perfect, but brown rice or quinoa can be used for extra nutrition and texture. Make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing in.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and brings great flavor. Feel free to use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend to change it up.
How Do You Get a Perfectly Melted and Golden Cheese Topping?
Getting that golden, bubbly cheese on top makes the casserole extra tasty. Here’s my simple way:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the casserole so it melts uniformly.
- Bake at 350°F until you see bubbling and the cheese edges turning golden—usually 25-30 minutes.
- If you want extra browning, finish with a quick 2-3 minute broil, but watch it closely to avoid burning.
Removing the casserole from the oven and letting it sit a few minutes helps the cheese set nicely for easy serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 8×8-inch baking dish – just the right size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Mixing bowl – to combine all your ingredients smoothly without any mess.
- Measuring cups – helps keep your ingredient amounts accurate for best results.
- Oven mitts – for safely handling the hot casserole dish when it comes out of the oven.
- Spoon or spatula – to mix ingredients well and scoop the casserole onto plates.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier twist.
- Add a cup of frozen peas or corn to sneak in some veggies and color.
- Mix in a teaspoon of taco seasoning for a southwestern kick.
- Try pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of spicy melt.
Dolly Parton’s 5 Ingredient Casserole Saves Dinner in 30 Minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 to 30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll have a comforting meal ready in roughly 30 minutes—perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and warm when the casserole is ready to bake.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a big bowl, combine the cooked chicken, condensed soup, sour cream, and cooked rice. Stir everything together well so the flavors blend.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish, then spread your chicken mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top.
4. Bake Until Bubbling:
Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on the edges.
5. Let it Rest and Serve:
Take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Then dig in and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it first. The best way is to thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat the chicken dry before mixing to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the mixture and assemble the casserole, then cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed—just add a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole covered in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Another Grain?
Yes! Cooked quinoa, couscous, or even cooked pasta work well as substitutes. Just make sure they are fully cooked and cooled before mixing into the casserole to keep the texture just right.
