Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

Introduction

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy tater tots, and savory ranch flavors all in one easy bake. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this casserole delivers cheesy, flavorful goodness with minimal effort.

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 on top of the chicken mixture in a single layer.
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

• Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut and extra flavor.
• Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
• Swap ranch dressing for a spicy chipotle ranch for a kick.
• Mix in some steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas to boost nutrition.

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 crispiness, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the topping 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, they require precooking and will change the texture. Frozen tater tots give the bake its signature crispy topping with minimal prep.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the bake before cooking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 112 reviews

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

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Description

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a delicious and comforting casserole combining tender shredded chicken mixed with creamy ranch dressing, seasoned with garlic and onion powder, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese, then baked to golden perfection. This easy, crowd-pleasing dish is garnished with fresh green onions for a flavorful finish, perfect for a hearty family meal or casual gatherings.

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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 (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly and achieving crispy tater tots.
2. Prepare Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken with ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly so the chicken is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing and spices.
3. Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish lightly to prevent sticking, then spread the chicken mixture evenly at the bottom of the dish, creating a uniform layer.
4. Add Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots evenly over the chicken layer, ensuring good coverage so each bite will have a crispy potato component.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the tater tots, which will melt and form a golden, gooey topping.
6. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Bake until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy, and the cheese melts completely, bubbling slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top. Serve warm for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Notes

• Make sure the chicken is fully cooked and shredded before starting the recipe.
• You can substitute ranch dressing with a homemade ranch or a lighter version for a healthier option.
• For extra crispiness, you can broil the bake for the last 2-3 minutes—watching carefully to avoid burning.
• Feel free to add other toppings like cooked bacon bits or jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• This dish can be prepared ahead up to assembly and refrigerated; bake right before serving.

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

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