Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

Introduction

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a delicious, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender shredded chicken with zesty ranch and crispy tater tots, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 3 cups frozen tater tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to coat evenly.
3. Step 3: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
4. Step 4: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut.
• Substitute ranch dressing with a spicy chipotle ranch for a kick.
• Add cooked bacon or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
• If you prefer a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and dressing.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through and crispy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots?

Yes, you can substitute fresh diced potatoes, but be sure to parboil or partially cook them first before baking to ensure they become tender and crispy.

Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if chilled.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 63 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and delicious casserole that combines shredded chicken mixed with creamy ranch dressing and spices, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Garnished with fresh green onions, this hearty dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or potluck favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken Mixture

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder

Topping

• 3 cups frozen tater tots
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Mix Chicken and Seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces with the creamy ranch and spices.
3. Assemble Chicken Layer: Grease a baking dish lightly, then spread the ranch-coated chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish as the base layer.
4. Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly on top of the chicken mixture. No need to thaw them beforehand.
5. Add Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer of tater tots to add rich flavor and help bind the topping during baking.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh, flavorful garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

• You can substitute rotisserie chicken to save time.
• For added flavor, try mixing in some cooked bacon bits or diced jalapeños with the chicken mixture.
• Ensure the tater tots are spread in a single layer for even crisping.
• Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burns from hot cheese.
• This dish can be prepared ahead by assembling and refrigerating, then baking when ready.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken, Tater Tot Bake, Chicken Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner