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Dolly Parton's 5-Ingredient Casserole

A creamy, comforting chicken casserole made with just five pantry staples and topped with a golden buttery cracker crust. Easy, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience
  • 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup 1 can, Campbell's recommended
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream Do not substitute low-fat
  • 1 sleeve buttery round crackers, crushed About 35 crackers, Ritz recommended
  • 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted 1 stick

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Spatula
  • Rolling pin or zip-lock bag for crushing crackers

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir until completely smooth with no visible streaks. Spread evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter until every crumb is coated and the mixture begins to clump slightly.
  4. Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the chicken filling, covering the entire surface. Do not press it down.
  5. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the topping is deep golden brown. Internal temperature should reach 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Assemble up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate unbaked. Add 5 to 10 extra minutes to bake time if coming straight from the fridge. Freeze unbaked for up to 2 months.