Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 99 reviews
  • Author: Zoe
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings 1x

Description

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a delicious, comforting casserole combining shredded chicken tossed in creamy ranch dressing with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make baked dish offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and crispy textures, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

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

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly and getting the tater tots crispy.
  2. Combine chicken and seasoning: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder until the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful ranch and spices.
  3. Prepare baking dish: Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking, then spread the ranch-coated chicken mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
  4. Add tater tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture, ensuring they cover it completely for even cooking and crispiness.
  5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer of tater tots to create a cheesy crust once baked.
  6. Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color before serving hot.

Notes

  • You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or drizzle hot sauce on top before baking.
  • Use reduced-fat cheese or ranch dressing for a lighter option.
  • Make sure not to thaw the tater tots before baking to ensure optimal crispness.
  • This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; bake just before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://cookingwithzoe.com/cheddar-ranch-chicken-tater-tot-bake-recipe-2/