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Creamy Chicken, Bacon, and Herb Casserole (Dolly Parton Style)

A close-up serving of creamy Dolly Parton Casserole featuring shredded chicken, a rich sauce, and a crunchy, golden-brown topping with bacon pieces.

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This hearty, make-ahead casserole delivers comforting, Southern-inspired flavor. It is a simple, creamy baked entree perfect for potlucks or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus 1/2 cup for topping
  • 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers (optional, for topping)
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter (if using cracker topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cream of chicken soup, and chicken broth. Mix until the base is smooth.
  3. Stir in the shredded chicken, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, bacon, parsley, garlic powder, and pepper until everything is evenly coated.
  4. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  5. If using a topping, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole, then top with the cracker mixture.
  6. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly throughout and the topping is golden brown.
  7. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before you serve it.

Notes

  • You can prepare this entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. Add about 10 minutes to the bake time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.
  • For a true Tennessee Casserole Dishes feel, serve this Hearty Dinner Casserole Idea alongside green beans or a simple garden salad.
  • If you do not have cooked chicken, you can poach 1 pound of raw chicken breasts in simmering water for 15 minutes, shred, and use in the recipe.

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