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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole crispy and golden.
- 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.
- Layer chicken mixture: Grease a baking dish and spread the chicken and ranch mixture evenly at the bottom.
- Add tater tots: Evenly place the frozen tater tots over the chicken mixture layer to create the crispy topping.
- Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots to add a delicious cheesy crust.
- 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.
- 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
