Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

Introduction

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a deliciously comforting dish that combines creamy ranch-flavored chicken with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s an easy, satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

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, mix the shredded chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
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 on top of the chicken mixture.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the 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

• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
• Swap the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
• Use cooked ground turkey or ham instead of chicken for a variation in protein.
• If you prefer crispy green onions, add them during the last 5 minutes of baking instead of before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through to maintain crispiness of the tater tots. Microwaving may result in softer tots.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?

While fresh potatoes can be used, tater tots provide the ideal crispy texture and convenience. If using fresh potatoes, slice them thinly and pre-cook slightly before layering.

Is this dish suitable for freezer storage?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra baking time until heated through and crispy.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 133 reviews

• Author: Sarah
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

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Description

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole featuring shredded chicken mixed with ranch dressing and spices, layered with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, offering a delicious blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures.

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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

Toppings

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly with the flavors.
3. Assemble the base layer: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the chicken and ranch mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating an even layer.
4. Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly over the chicken mixture, covering it completely to form the next layer.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots to add a rich, melty finish.
6. Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or 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, vibrant garnish. Serve warm.

Notes

• Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the chicken mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
• This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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