Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

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If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty dish that the whole family will love, look no further than this Chicken Tater Tot Casserole.

It’s a delightful medley of tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and crispy tater tots all baked to perfection.

This comforting casserole comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights or as a warm dish to share with friends and family during gatherings.

With layers of cheesy goodness and the satisfying crunch of tater tots on top, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Chicken Tater Tot Casserole.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

The creamy texture of the chicken and vegetable filling, combined with the crispy layer of tater tots, turns a simple midweek dinner into a special occasion.

It’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced meal in one dish.

Plus, it’s easily customizable to fit your family’s tastes, ensuring that everyone will find something to love.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy and filling meal or someone who just loves comfort food, this recipe will satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (900g) chicken breasts, cubed into bite-sized ½ inch pieces
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup (180ml) whole milk
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) chicken stock or broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 cups (300g) frozen mixed vegetables (corn, carrots, peas)
• 32-ounce (900g) bag frozen tater tots
• 8 ounces (225g) cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How To Make Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, season the cubed chicken breasts with kosher salt and ground black pepper.

This simple seasoning allows the natural flavors of the chicken to shine through.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.

Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.

Then, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, stirring constantly to create a roux.

Cook for about 2 minutes.

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and chicken stock, ensuring there are no lumps.

Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, around 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Vegetables

Reduce heat to low and add the seasoned chicken to the skillet along with the dried thyme and frozen mixed vegetables.

Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is well coated with the sauce.

Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked through.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the chicken and vegetable mixture evenly.

Top with frozen tater tots in a single layer, covering the entire surface.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes.

Then, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Tater Tot Casserole!

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices for a few hours before cooking.
• Feel free to swap in different vegetables, such as broccoli or bell peppers, depending on what you have on hand.
• If you’re a fan of spice, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the chicken mixture for a little kick.
• Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps it set up and makes it easier to serve.

Variations and Customizations

• Use ground chicken or turkey instead of cubed chicken for a different texture.
• Try different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for various flavor profiles.
• Replace the tater tots with hash browns for a fun twist on this classic dish.
• Make it vegetarian by replacing chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and using vegetable broth.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Tater Tot Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.

Keep in mind, the crispy texture of the tater tots may become softer after reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.

FAQ

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh vegetables, just make sure to cook them briefly before adding them to the casserole to ensure they are tender.

Is there a way to make this casserole a bit healthier?

Certainly! You can use lean chicken breasts and low-fat cheese is a good substitute.

Additionally, increasing the amount of vegetables and using whole grain tater tots can enhance the nutrition of the dish.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What should I serve with this casserole?

This Chicken Tater Tot Casserole can be a stand-alone dish, but it pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness and color.

Conclusion

This Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a vibrant, creamy dish that doesn’t just bring comfort to your table; it also provides warmth and joy in every bite.

With its rich flavors and fun textures, it’s a thrilling twist on a classic comfort food that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

So gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that you and your loved ones will crave again and again! Happy cooking!

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