In a large mixing bowl, combine:
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Cream of chicken soup
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Sour cream
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Shredded cheddar cheese
Stir until smooth and creamy. This mixture becomes the rich sauce that binds the casserole together.
Step 3 — Add the Chicken
Fold in your shredded cooked chicken, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Rotisserie chicken works especially well because it adds extra flavor and tenderness.
Step 4 — Add Your Starch
Depending on your preferred version of the casserole, gently fold in:
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Frozen hash browns (thawed slightly), or
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2 cups cooked rice, or
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3 cups cooked pasta
Hash browns give a heartier breakfast-style casserole, while rice or noodles make a more classic dinner version.
Step 5 — Transfer to a Baking Dish
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish.
Top with an extra sprinkle of cheddar cheese if you want a more golden, bubbly finish.
Step 6 — Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until:
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The top is beautifully golden
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The edges are bubbling
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The center is fully heated
Let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving so it can set perfectly.
🌟 Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with both simple sides and more elaborate spreads. Try serving it with:
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Steamed green beans or broccoli
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A fresh garden salad
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Roasted vegetables
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Buttermilk biscuits
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Southern cornbread
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A simple fruit salad
For potlucks or holidays, serve alongside ham, turkey, or BBQ favorites.
🔧 Recipe Variations (Customize Dolly’s Casserole Your Way!)
One of the best things about this casserole is how easy it is to adapt. Here are some delicious variations:
1. Crispy Topping Version
Mix together:
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1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
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4 tablespoons melted butter
Sprinkle on top before baking for an extra crunchy finish.
2. Veggie-Loaded Casserole
Stir in:
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1 cup frozen peas
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½ cup diced carrots
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½ cup corn
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1 small onion, finely chopped
This turns the dish into a full meal in one casserole.
3. Spicy Kick Version
Add:
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½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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¼ cup diced jalapeños
Perfect for those who love a little heat.
4. Cheesy Upgrade
Mix cheddar with:
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Mozzarella
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Pepper jack
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Monterey Jack
More cheese = more comfort.
5. Southern Biscuit Topping
Instead of hash browns, top the casserole with:
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Canned biscuit dough
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Homemade drop biscuits
Bake until golden and fluffy.
6. Rice or Pasta Version
Replace hash browns with:
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2 cups cooked white rice
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3 cups cooked egg noodles
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2 cups cooked macaroni
Creates a softer, creamier result.
🥡 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
This casserole freezes extremely well.
To freeze:
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Assemble but do not bake, OR freeze leftovers.
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Wrap tightly in foil + plastic wrap.
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Freeze for up to 3 months.
To bake from frozen:
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Thaw overnight
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Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes
Reheating Instructions
Microwave: Warm individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
Oven: Reheat in a covered dish at 325°F until hot.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
2. Can I use canned chicken?
Absolutely. While fresh or rotisserie chicken tastes better, canned chicken works in a pinch.
3. Can I substitute cream of mushroom soup?
Yes—cream of mushroom or cream of celery both work wonderfully.
4. Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soup and ensure your sides (such as crackers) are gluten-free.
5. Can I add bacon?
Yes. Crumbled bacon takes the flavor to another level!
6. How do I make it lighter?
Use:
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Light sour cream
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Low-fat soup
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Reduced-fat cheese
Still delicious!
🎉 Conclusion: A Timeless Southern Comfort Dish
Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Chicken Casserole is proof that comfort food doesn’t need to be complicated. With only a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you get a warm, creamy, incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights, holidays, potlucks, or anytime you need a little taste of home.
This casserole brings people together, fills the kitchen with love, and reminds us why Southern cooking is so deeply cherished. Make it once, and it’s guaranteed to become a regular part of your recipe rotation.
