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.
Ingredients
Scale
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)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- 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.
- 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.
- Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly on top of the chicken mixture. No need to thaw them beforehand.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
