Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a mouthwatering, comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave something indulgent and satisfying. This casserole combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and crunchy tater tots, all brought together with a creamy ranch-infused sauce. It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Simple to prepare and incredibly delicious, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients
- 3 cups chopped cooked chicken: Provides protein and a hearty base for the casserole.
- 16 oz sour cream: Adds creaminess and tangy flavor.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can unsalted cream of chicken soup: Enhances the creaminess and flavor.
- 1 (1 oz) package ranch dressing mix: Infuses the casserole with a zesty, herbaceous flavor.
- 1 cup chopped cooked bacon: Adds a smoky, savory crunch.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a gooey, melty texture and rich flavor.
- 1 (30 to 32 oz) bag frozen tater tots: Adds a crispy, crunchy topping.
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.
- Prepare the Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of chopped cooked chicken, 16 oz of sour cream, 1 can of unsalted cream of chicken soup, 1 package of ranch dressing mix, 1 cup of chopped cooked bacon, and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Add Tater Tots:
- Gently fold in the frozen tater tots until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. The tater tots will add a delicious crunch to the casserole once baked.
- Transfer to Baking Pan:
- Once everything is thoroughly mixed, transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even baking.
- Bake:
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the casserole, uncovered, for 40-45 minutes, or until it’s hot and bubbly, and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve this delectable Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole hot and enjoy the rave reviews from family and friends!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 25g
Serving
Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is best served hot and fresh from the oven. It makes a fantastic main dish for dinner and pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole. This dish is also great for potlucks and gatherings, as it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Notes
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover cooked chicken, or even turkey as a substitute.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend.
- Bacon: For a shortcut, you can use pre-cooked bacon bits instead of cooking the bacon yourself.
- Tater Tots: Make sure the tater tots are evenly distributed for a consistent crispy texture throughout the casserole.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and frozen before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it before baking and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
What can I use instead of sour cream? You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or a mixture of cream cheese and milk for a similar creamy texture.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of tater tots? Yes, you can use fresh diced potatoes. Make sure to par-cook them before adding to the casserole to ensure they cook through properly.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier? To make a lighter version, use reduced-fat sour cream, low-fat cheese, and turkey bacon. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to increase the nutritional value.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy? Using lean chicken and draining the bacon well after cooking can help reduce greasiness. Additionally, using low-fat or reduced-fat versions of the sour cream and cheese can help.
What other toppings can I add? You can add various toppings like sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of additional cheese for extra flavor and texture.
Can I use a different type of soup? Yes, you can use other cream-based soups like cream of mushroom or cream of celery if you prefer a different flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any 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, or microwave individual portions.
What can I serve with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole? Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or peas. Just make sure to par-cook any harder vegetables before adding them to the casserole.
In conclusion, Cracked Out Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy, and crunchy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this casserole is a great way to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Enjoy making and sharing this scrumptious dish with your loved ones!