Thank you so much for being here! Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting to collect your own beloved weeknight recipes, there’s something special about stumbling across a dish that’s both ridiculously easy and incredibly comforting. That’s exactly what Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe brings to the table — it’s simple, budget-friendly, and tastes like something your grandma might’ve made with love and a little Southern flair.

This casserole is built for real life — quick to prepare, easy to clean up, and so comforting that everyone at the table will ask for seconds (and probably thirds). If you’re into hearty, creamy dishes that come together with pantry staples, you’re in for a treat.

What Is Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole?

This recipe has all the hallmarks of a Dolly Parton classic — it’s humble, down-to-earth, and full of warmth. The casserole starts with cooked shredded chicken, which is folded into a creamy mixture of sour cream and cream of chicken soup, then topped with sharp cheddar cheese and a thick layer of crushed potato chips for that irresistible crunch. Everything is baked until golden and bubbling, and what comes out of the oven is pure, melt-in-your-mouth comfort food.

While no one can confirm Dolly herself whips this up in her Tennessee kitchen, the recipe is often linked to her Southern roots and love of classic, homestyle cooking. Whether you’re serving it to your kids on a school night or bringing it to a church potluck, this dish is the definition of easy comfort food.

Why You’ll Fall in Love With This Casserole

I’ve made a lot of casseroles over the years, but I keep coming back to this one. It checks every box:

Super simple: Only five ingredients, and they’re all easy to find.
Fast prep: Mix, spread, top, and bake. You’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.
No fancy tools: Just one bowl and a baking dish.
Familiar flavors: It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting — like a warm blanket on a plate.
Kid-approved: Even picky eaters love this one.
Customizable: You can easily adjust it with add-ins or swaps.

What Does It Taste Like?

If you could take the essence of a cozy Sunday dinner and bake it into one dish, this would be it. The chicken provides a tender, protein-rich base. The sour cream and cream of chicken soup combine into a luscious sauce that’s creamy and full of savory depth. Cheddar cheese adds richness and a little sharpness to cut through the creaminess. But the real surprise? That crunchy potato chip topping. It’s salty, golden, and slightly toasty after baking — just the thing to contrast the soft interior. It’s comfort food at its finest, and absolutely anything but boring.

Benefits of This Recipe

Beyond its dreamy flavor and ease of preparation, this casserole offers a few real-life benefits:

Budget-friendly: The ingredients are inexpensive and often already in your pantry.
Meal prep win: Assemble it earlier in the day and bake when you’re ready.
Perfect for leftovers: This reheats beautifully — the flavors deepen even more the next day.
Great for gatherings: It travels well, slices cleanly, and feeds a crowd.
Freezer-friendly: Make a double batch and freeze one for later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works perfectly)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups crushed potato chips (use Lay’s or any ruffled-style chip for better crunch)

Tools Required

You won’t need any fancy equipment here. Just these kitchen basics:

Large mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon or spatula
Oven (preheated to 350°F)

Ingredient Swaps and Additions

I promised versatility, and this recipe delivers. You can swap and modify it to suit your preferences or just what’s in your pantry.

Protein swaps:

Use canned chicken (drained well)
Substitute turkey for a post-holiday variation
Try shredded rotisserie pork or leftover roast beef

Cream base swaps:

Cream of mushroom or cream of celery can replace the cream of chicken
Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier, higher-protein option
A mix of mayonnaise and milk can also stand in for the sour cream if needed

Add-ins for flavor:

Sautéed onions or mushrooms
Cooked bacon crumbles
Chopped green chiles or diced jalapeños for heat
Frozen peas, corn, or broccoli for a vegetable boost
Dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika

Topping alternatives:

Crushed Ritz crackers with melted butter
Panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil
French fried onions

How to Make Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Butter, nonstick spray, or a little oil will all work here — you just want to make sure the casserole doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined and looks thick and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble

Spoon the creamy chicken mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.

Now it’s time for the best part — the potato chip topping. Sprinkle the crushed chips evenly across the surface of the casserole, making sure every inch is covered for that signature crunch.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the chips have turned a deep golden brown.

Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. It will set slightly as it cools, making it easier to portion.

What to Serve With This Casserole

Because this casserole is so rich and creamy, I love pairing it with something fresh or tangy to balance it out.

Steamed green beans or broccoli
A crisp salad with vinaigrette or ranch
Pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad
Southern cornbread or dinner rolls to round out the meal
Iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink pairing

Tips for Best Results

Use a rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Crush your potato chips gently — you want pieces, not dust.
Don’t overbake — once it’s bubbling and golden, it’s ready.
Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne to the creamy base or use pepper jack cheese.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.

Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Cover tightly with foil and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Add the chip topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole (without the chip topping) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add the chips just before baking.

Can I use canned chicken?

Absolutely. Use about two 12.5-ounce cans, drained. It’s a great pantry-friendly shortcut.

Is this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream of chicken soup and gluten-free chips, and this recipe can easily be adapted for gluten-free diets.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Store leftovers in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in the microwave or oven. The chip topping will soften, but it’s still delicious.

Final Thoughts

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole isn’t just easy — it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good while you’re eating it. It’s got that old-fashioned, church-picnic, pass-the-serving-spoon energy that’s hard to find in more complicated recipes. Whether you serve it on a quiet Wednesday night or bring it to a family gathering, you’ll be glad you made it.

If you’re looking for more comforting, crowd-pleasing Southern favorites, don’t stop here. I’ve got a few more you’ll want to try:

Try this Lasagna Baked Potato Recipe — it’s a delicious twist on two comfort food classics.
Craving something sweet? These Fried Apple Pie Balls are golden, gooey, and perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Need a snack or party dip? This Strawberry Crunch Apples & Cream Cheese Dip is always a hit with kids and adults alike.

Leave a Review and Share the Love

I’d love to hear how this casserole turned out for you! Leave a comment with your tweaks, additions, or serving ideas — and don’t forget to share your photos on Pinterest so we can cook together from afar. Your feedback helps others (and me!) find new ways to make and love this recipe.

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 410
Protein: 23g
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 690mg

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole Recipe: A Comforting Classic You’ll Make Again and Again

Author: Sam

Print Recipe

Description

Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole is the ultimate Southern comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden potato chip crunch. It’s fast, filling, and made with pantry staples, making it a weeknight dinner hero and a potluck favorite. Minimal effort, maximum flavor — just how Dolly would like it!

Ingredients

Scale

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
2 cups crushed potato chips (ruffled or kettle-style for extra crunch)

Instructions

Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Stir until creamy and well blended.
Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
Add the Crunch
Cover the top completely with the crushed potato chips, pressing down lightly so they stay in place.
Bake and Serve
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
Make ahead tip: Assemble (without the chips) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add chips just before baking.
Substitutions: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, or use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken.
Freezer-friendly: Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

Want to jazz it up? Add cooked bacon, green chiles, or frozen peas for extra flavor and texture.