Easy Chicken Pot Pie Tater Tot Casserole
There’s something incredibly delightful about a cozy casserole dish, and this recipe takes comfort food to the next level. In this easy chicken pot pie tater tot casserole, all the classic flavors come together with a crispy, golden crust of tater tots. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this is the perfect recipe to get you into the kitchen and enjoy something delicious.
The first time I made this dish, it was a snowy evening, and my family had gathered to celebrate the first snowfall of the year. My grandmother always used to say that the best meals are the ones made with love and shared with loved ones. That evening, despite the chilly weather, the warmth of the tater tot casserole brought us all together with laughter and stories around the dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of a classic chicken pot pie with the delightful texture of tater tots, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. It’s both a time-saver and a hit for busy weeknights, thanks to its simple preparation and familiar ingredients. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner with your family or guests.
Ingredients Notes
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, a mix of vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn, creamy chicken soup, and, of course, tater tots. Feel free to use fresh or frozen veggies, depending on what’s available. You can also substitute the chicken breasts with rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish and set aside. This step ensures a non-stick surface for your casserole.
Step 2
Cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, vegetables, and cream of chicken soup. Mix thoroughly to evenly coat the ingredients with the soup.
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Step 4
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture. This will give that signature crispy topping.
Step 5
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For freezing, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a lighter version, opt for low-fat cream of chicken soup and reduced-fat tater tots. You can also experiment with different vegetables like broccoli or green beans for variety. Vegetarians can substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for an equally delicious meal.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck with friends. Serve it alongside a light salad or some steamed greens to balance the richness of the casserole. A glass of crisp white wine like Chardonnay complements its flavors beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish the night before and store it in the fridge. Just pop it into the oven when you’re ready to bake, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if needed.
Can I use canned vegetables?
Yes, canned vegetables can be used if fresh or frozen are unavailable. Make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
What can I do if my casserole is too watery?
If your casserole turns out watery, try baking it a bit longer without the cover to evaporate some of the liquid. You might also consider reducing the amount of liquid added to the mixture if you notice this becoming a recurring issue.
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Easy Chicken Pot Pie Tater Tot Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables thawed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup 10.5 oz
- 1 cup milk
- 1 bag tater tots 32 oz
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mixed vegetables, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and black pepper.
- Spread the chicken mixture evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Top with a layer of tater tots, covering the surface completely.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes until tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
