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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 112 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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.

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 (for garnish)

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

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