A simple, family-friendly casserole built with chicken and crispy tater tots.
introduction
Tater Tot Chicken Casserole is an easy one-dish meal. It cooks in the oven and fills the house with a warm smell. If you like creamy tater tot bakes, try this chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole for another idea.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick and uses common ingredients. Kids and adults usually like the crunchy tater tots on top. You can change the veggies or cheese to make it your own, like other versions such as Mexican tater tot casserole.
how to make Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
Follow the steps below. Read ingredients and directions first. Preheat the oven and get a 9×13 inch baking dish ready.
Ingredients :
- 1 (32 oz) bag of frozen tater tots
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the tater tots on top of the chicken mixture in a single layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
how to serve Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
Cut into squares and serve hot. Add a simple side salad or steamed green beans. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions works well too.
how to store Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
Let the casserole cool to room temperature. Cover with foil or plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
tips to make Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Thaw the frozen vegetables small if they clump, so they mix well.
- For extra crisp, broil the top for 1-2 minutes at the end—watch closely.
- Taste the filling before baking and add a bit more salt or pepper if needed.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked bacon for more flavor.
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for a spicy kick.
- Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery instead of cream of chicken.
- Mix in chopped bell peppers or corn for extra veggies.
FAQs
Q: Can I use raw chicken?
A: No. Use cooked chicken. Raw chicken will not cook fully in the bake time.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble in the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: You can freeze before baking. Wrap well and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking. Bake until hot and tater tots are crisp.
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Yes. Chop and lightly steam firmer veggies first so they cook through.
Conclusion
For another similar take and ideas on topping and mix-ins, see this Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole – Plain Chicken.
Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange the tater tots on top of the chicken mixture in a single layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.