3 cups shredded cooked chicken (or use a rotisserie chicken for convenience)
16 oz sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1 package (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
2 cups cooked and chopped bacon
2 cups shredded cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend work well)
1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
Chives or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Chicken: Shred your cooked chicken. If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, dry ranch dressing mix, and chopped bacon. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the chicken mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
Add the Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the chicken mixture.
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes.
Add the Cheese: After 40 minutes, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the tater tots.
Finish Baking: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Chicken Tater Tot Casserole!
Tips:
For added flavor, you can mix some of the cheese into the chicken mixture before spreading it in the dish.
If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
