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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a quick, easy, and comforting casserole combining tender shredded chicken, creamy ranch seasoning, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this one-dish meal offers cheesy, savory flavors with a satisfying crunch, all made with simple pantry ingredients and customizable to your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil, melted
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional), thawed and drained

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Veggies: Cook chicken breast if not pre-cooked and shred into bite-sized pieces. Thaw and drain frozen vegetables if using, to avoid excess moisture.
  2. Mix the Ranch and Creamy Base: In a bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, sour cream, and melted butter or olive oil to create a creamy, tangy ranch base.
  3. Combine Chicken, Veggies, and Cheese: Fold the shredded chicken, thawed vegetables, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the ranch mixture. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
  4. Layer the Ingredients: Grease a baking dish and spread the chicken mixture evenly inside. Top the mixture evenly with the frozen tater tots to ensure they crisp properly during baking.
  5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbling. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Use fresh shredded chicken for the best texture and flavor absorption.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking dish to allow tater tots to crisp up nicely.
  • Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
  • Set a timer and watch the bake closely during the last 5 minutes to avoid over-browning.
  • Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to set before slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheddar ranch chicken tater tot bake, chicken casserole, cheesy chicken bake, tater tot casserole, ranch chicken bake, quick dinner, family meal