Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

Introduction

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy ranch dressing, crispy tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy bake is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.

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 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 crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
• Swap ranch dressing with a spicy chipotle ranch for added heat.
• Use cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra flavor and texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the tater tots regain some crispiness, about 10-15 minutes.

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, frozen tater tots offer a convenient and consistent crispy texture. If using fresh potatoes, parboil and season them before layering to ensure proper cooking and flavor.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

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 time to ensure it’s heated through.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 125 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole that combines shredded chicken tossed in ranch dressing and savory spices, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, delivering a satisfying blend of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures in every bite.

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Ingredients

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Main 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole crispy and golden.
2. Mix chicken and seasoning: In a large bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure all flavors are evenly distributed.
3. Layer chicken mixture: Grease a baking dish and spread the chicken and ranch mixture evenly at the bottom.
4. Add tater tots: Evenly place the frozen tater tots over the chicken mixture layer to create the crispy topping.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots to add a delicious cheesy crust.
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 from oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful finish before serving.

Notes

• Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before shredding to avoid undercooked poultry.
• Use frozen tater tots directly from the freezer; no need to thaw.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
• Feel free to substitute ranch dressing with a homemade or dairy-free alternative if desired.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

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

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