Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded or diced chicken, the can of cream of chicken soup, and the sour cream. Stir these ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and the chicken is evenly coated in the creamy mixture.
- Add 1 ½ cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the chicken mixture. Gently fold the cheese into the mixture until it is evenly distributed.
- Pour the entire chicken and cheese mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to form a consistent layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, creating an even layer of cheese.
- Evenly scatter the plain breadcrumbs over the layer of cheese. This will create a delicious, crispy topping when baked.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden brown. If you prefer a crispier, darker topping, you can briefly broil it for 1-2 minutes at the very end, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To ensure your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole comes out perfectly every time, consider these cooking tips. For the best flavor, use good quality sharp cheddar cheese, as it melts beautifully and provides a wonderful tangy contrast to the creamy chicken. When cooking your chicken, you can boil, bake, or even use a rotisserie chicken for ultimate convenience; just make sure it’s fully cooked and shredded or diced before adding it to the mixture. Don’t skimp on the resting time after baking; this allows the casserole to firm up, making for cleaner scoops and a more enjoyable texture. If you find your casserole looking a little dry, a splash of milk or chicken broth can be added to the chicken and soup mixture before baking to increase moisture, though the sour cream usually prevents this.
This simple recipe is also a fantastic canvas for various delicious variations. For an extra layer of flavor in the topping, mix a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning into your breadcrumbs before sprinkling them over the cheese. If you’re not a fan of cream of chicken soup, feel free to substitute it with cream of mushroom, cream of celery, or even cheddar cheese soup for a different flavor profile. To sneak in some vegetables, sautéed diced onions, bell peppers, or frozen peas and carrots can be stirred into the chicken mixture before baking. For a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can be added to the creamy base. You could also experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or a Colby blend, for a milder taste. To make it a heartier dish, consider adding some cooked rice or egg noodles directly into the mixture before baking. For a gluten-free version, ensure your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Storage and Reheating
Storing and reheating your Dolly Parton’s 5-Ingredient Casserole properly ensures that you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days to come. Once the casserole has fully cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Frozen casserole will maintain its quality for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat individual servings from the refrigerator, the microwave is your quickest option. Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. For larger portions or an entire casserole, reheating in the oven is recommended to maintain optimal texture. Preheat your oven to 300-325°F (150-160°C). Cover the casserole dish loosely with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 20-30 minutes for a full casserole, or 10-15 minutes for a smaller portion, until it is heated through to the center. If you want to crisp up the topping again, remove the foil for the last few minutes of reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This casserole is excellent for meal prep. You can assemble the entire casserole, including the cheese and breadcrumb topping, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap before refrigerating. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge about 30 minutes prior to baking to allow it to come closer to room temperature, then bake as directed, potentially adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What kind of cooked chicken should I use?
You have several options for cooked chicken! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic and time-saving choice, offering great flavor and tenderness. You can also boil or bake boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, then shred or dice them. Leftover roasted chicken works wonderfully too. The key is to ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole mixture.
Can I make this casserole without breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can certainly omit the breadcrumbs if you prefer. The casserole will still be delicious and cheesy. If you want to add a different kind of crunchy topping, you could crush some butter crackers or cornflakes and sprinkle them over the cheese instead. Alternatively, you can simply leave the cheese topping as is, and it will bake into a wonderfully gooey, golden layer.
Is there a way to make this spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, there are several easy ways to add spice to this casserole. You can mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the chicken and soup mixture. A few dashes of your favorite hot sauce can also be stirred into the creamy base. For a more pronounced spicy kick, consider using pepper jack cheese instead of or in addition to the cheddar cheese for the topping.