Description
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole combining shredded chicken tossed in creamy ranch dressing and spices, topped with crispy frozen tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This savory dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual get-together.
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 perfect baking temperature while you prepare the dish.
- Mix Chicken and Seasonings: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and then spread the chicken and ranch mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to form a solid base layer.
- Add Tater Tot Layer: Place the frozen tater tots evenly on top of the chicken mixture, covering the entire surface. This layer will become crispy and golden as it bakes.
- Sprinkle Cheese: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots to add a rich, melty topping that complements the dish beautifully.
- Bake: Place the baking 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 on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For extra crispiness, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Ranch dressing can be substituted with a homemade ranch mix and sour cream for a fresher taste.
- Add vegetables like corn or peas to the chicken mixture for added nutrition and texture.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake, casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, chicken recipe, tater tots, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese
