Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

Introduction

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender shredded chicken, creamy ranch dressing, crispy tater tots, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

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 evenly on top of the chicken mixture.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese 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

• Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
• Swap out ranch dressing for a spicy chipotle ranch for a kick.
• Add vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• For a cheesier dish, mix some cheddar cheese into the chicken mixture as well.

Storage

Store any 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 crispness. Avoid microwaving to keep the tots crispy.

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, tater tots are preferred for their convenience and crispy texture. If using fresh potatoes, cut into small cubes and par-cook before baking to ensure they cook fully.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this bake reheats well and can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Just add extra baking time if baking from cold to ensure it heats evenly.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 51 reviews

• Author: Marina
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

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Description

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting and delicious casserole combining shredded chicken tossed in creamy ranch dressing and spices, layered with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make bake is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or family gathering, boasting a perfect balance of cheesy, savory, and crispy textures with a fresh hint of green onions on top.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it is at the perfect temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Prepare Chicken Mixture: 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 ranch and spices.
3. Assemble Base Layer: Grease a baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the ranch chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to form a uniform base layer.
4. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture, covering it completely for a crispy, golden topping once baked.
5. Sprinkle Cheese: Generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the tater tots to create a rich, melted cheesy crust.
6. Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with the chopped green onions, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color before serving.

Notes

• Use rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
• Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Make sure to use frozen tater tots straight from the freezer for best texture.
• This dish 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: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: cheddar ranch chicken bake, tater tot casserole, easy chicken dinner, ranch chicken recipe, comfort food, cheesy chicken bake