Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion, this buffalo chicken tater tot casserole is a winner! This recipe combines tender shredded chicken with a creamy mixture of sour cream, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing, all topped off with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 pound frozen tater tots
8 ounces sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
⅓ cup buffalo sauce
¼ cup ranch dressing
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 55-60 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Using these simple ingredients and following the steps will give you a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken, 8 ounces of sour cream, ⅓ cup of buffalo sauce, 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and ¼ cup of ranch dressing. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Spread the Mixture in the Baking Dish
Transfer the chicken mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly to create a smooth, even layer.
Step 4: Add the Tater Tots
Place the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture, ensuring they cover the entire surface for even cooking.
Step 5: Sprinkle Additional Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the layer of tater tots to add extra flavor and a cheesy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This will make it easier to serve and enhance the flavors.
Notes
Tip for Chicken
Cooked, shredded chicken can be made from rotisserie chicken or boiled chicken breasts for convenience.
Frozen Tater Tots
Ensure that the tater tots are frozen before adding them to the casserole to achieve the desired crispy texture.
Buffalo Sauce Variation
Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce according to your heat preference; you can use mild or extra hot sauces depending on your taste.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
Combine shredded chicken, sour cream, buffalo sauce, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing in a large bowl. Ensure all ingredients are evenly mixed to distribute flavors throughout the casserole.
Layering
Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the baking dish before adding the tater tots. This ensures a uniform texture and flavor in every bite.
Baking
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for 40-45 minutes. This allows the dish to heat thoroughly and the tater tots to become crispy.
Cooling
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This waiting period helps set the layers for easier serving.
FAQ
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked, shredded chicken?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh chicken. Just ensure it is fully cooked and shredded before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Is there a substitute for buffalo sauce?
Yes, you can use a different hot sauce or barbecue sauce if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn can enhance the flavors and textures.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
Conclusion
This tater tot chicken casserole is a delicious and easy way to combine the comforting flavors of shredded chicken, creamy ranch, and zesty buffalo sauce, all topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings or a family dinner, bringing everyone together with hearty flavors and satisfying textures.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Take the same shredded chicken and buffalo sauce mixture and stuff it into halved bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender for a healthier twist.
Chicken Tater Tot Soup
Transform this recipe into a warming soup by combining shredded chicken, tater tots, sour cream, and broth. Simmer everything together for a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness.
BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Bake
Swap the buffalo sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweeter flavor. Mix with the chicken and top with tater tots and cheese before baking for a delicious twist.
Chicken and Tater Tot Casserole with Veggies
Add some frozen mixed vegetables to the chicken mixture before layering with tater tots for an added nutritional boost and a pop of color.
Cheesy Chicken Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Incorporate eggs into the mixture for a breakfast version. Pour scrambled eggs over the chicken before adding the tater tots for a filling brunch option.
