Description
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole that combines tender shredded chicken mixed with tangy ranch dressing and spices, topped with crispy golden tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. Finished with fresh green onions, this hearty bake is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
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
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your casserole is assembled.
- Mix the Chicken: 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 flavorful sauce and spices.
- Assemble the Bake: Grease a baking dish and then spread the ranch-coated chicken mixture evenly across the bottom. This forms a savory base layer for the casserole.
- Add the Tater Tots: Evenly distribute the frozen tater tots on top of the chicken mixture, covering it completely to create a crispy topping once baked.
- Cheese Layer: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots to create a rich, melty cheese crust during baking.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or 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 chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, zesty finish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, consider broiling the bake for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning.
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and nutrition.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the chicken mixture.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; just increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake, tater tot casserole, chicken casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, baked tater tots, ranch chicken bake
