Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Country-Style Casserole

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
  3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top with a spatula.
  4. Sprinkle the crushed crackers over the casserole, then scatter the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese on top.
  5. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

Variations:

  • Add Veggies: Mix in ½ cup of frozen peas or chopped broccoli to add a bit of green and a nutritional boost.
  • Spice It Up: Stir in a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of Southern heat.
  • Tex-Mex Twist: Swap in cream of mushroom soup, pepper jack cheese, and add a handful of green chilies or chopped bell pepper.
  • Turkey Option: This recipe works just as well with leftover turkey — great for post-holiday meals.

Tips:

  • For best texture, use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken — avoid canned chicken if possible.
  • Crushing crackers in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin is a mess-free way to get even crumbs.
  • Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole earlier in the day and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.