Description
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and flavorful casserole combining shredded chicken tossed in creamy ranch dressing with crispy golden tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or a satisfying family meal, topped with fresh green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
- Mix Chicken and Seasonings: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated with the dressing and spices.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in an even layer on top of the chicken mixture, covering the surface completely.
- Sprinkle Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the layer of tater tots, ensuring good coverage for a cheesy top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown, crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bake from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions on top as garnish. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty and delicious casserole.
Notes
- Use cooked chicken leftovers or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- You can substitute ranch dressing with a homemade or low-fat version for a lighter option.
- Ensure the tater tots are spread evenly for uniform crispiness.
- Feel free to add extra veggies like bell peppers or corn in the chicken mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Evening Meals
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake, casserole, tater tots, shredded chicken, comfort food, easy dinner
