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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Tater Tot Bake is a comforting casserole combining tender chicken, creamy ranch seasoning, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for family dinners, game day, or any occasion, this easy-to-make dish layers proteins, veggies, cheese, and potatoes for a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 2 cups cooked and shredded or diced chicken breasts

Dairy & Dairy Alternatives

  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup

Seasonings & Aromatics

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)

Other

  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen tater tots

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Cook chicken breasts thoroughly by baking, boiling, or pan-searing. Once cooked, shred or dice into bite-sized pieces for layering.
  2. Mix the Creamy Base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, and diced onions. Stir well to create a flavorful, creamy sauce that binds the chicken and vegetables.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken and frozen mixed vegetables (if using) into the creamy base. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly with the ranch mixture.
  4. Assemble the Bake: Spread the chicken and sauce mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.
  5. Add Tater Tot Topping: Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the cheese, covering the entire surface to create a crispy golden crust.
  6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

Notes

  • Use warm chicken when mixing with the creamy base for better flavor blending.
  • Do not overcrowd tater tots; arrange in a single layer for crispiness.
  • Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.
  • For fresher flavor, make your own homemade ranch seasoning mix.
  • If you have an ovenproof cast iron skillet, use it for quicker cleanup and rustic presentation.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheddar Ranch Chicken, Tater Tot Bake, Casserole, Comfort Food, Cheesy Chicken Bake, One Dish Meal