Are you searching for a heartwarming, incredibly satisfying, and utterly delicious meal that the whole family will adore? Look no further than this delightful Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie! This recipe offers a playful yet incredibly flavorful spin on the classic comfort food, transforming it into an irresistible casserole topped with crispy golden tater tots. It’s an innovative dish that promises to be a huge hit, especially with the little ones!
Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie: A Family Favorite with a Fun Twist
Chicken pot pie holds a special place in many hearts, evoking memories of cozy dinners and comforting flavors. For me, it started with the convenience of frozen versions during childhood, evolving into a passion for crafting homemade delights as I grew older and began exploring the culinary world. There’s an undeniable charm to the rich, creamy filling encased in a flaky crust, but sometimes, a little creativity can elevate a classic to new heights. That’s precisely how this Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie came to be.
One evening, pondering a way to inject more fun into a traditional pot pie, my thoughts drifted to another beloved staple: tater tots. Those crispy, golden potato nuggets are a universal favorite, and the idea sparked immediately: why not combine the savory goodness of chicken pot pie with the irresistible crunch of tater tots? It’s often in these moments of culinary experimentation, bringing together flavors and textures we love, that the most memorable recipes are born. The result was nothing short of spectacular – a rich, creamy chicken and vegetable filling, generously layered with fluffy tater tots and melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This inventive casserole quickly became a staple in our home, receiving enthusiastic approval from everyone who tried it.
This recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It takes the familiar, comforting essence of chicken pot pie and adds a layer of fun and texture that makes it stand out. Forget the fuss of traditional pastry crusts; here, the humble tater tot steps up, providing a crispy, satisfying topping that complements the creamy filling beautifully. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, special family gatherings, or whenever you crave ultimate comfort food without the extensive prep time. Get ready to transform your dinner table with this absolutely delicious and easy-to-make Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie!
Frequently Asked Questions About Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie
Absolutely not! One of the best aspects of this recipe is its simplicity. You can use frozen tater tots straight from the bag, just as you would for a classic tater tot casserole. Placing them frozen on top of the chicken mixture allows them to cook to a perfect golden crisp while the pot pie bakes, saving you valuable prep time.
Certainly! If you prefer a beef-based pot pie, you can easily adapt this recipe. Simply cook and crumble about a pound of ground beef until browned, then drain off any excess fat. You can even use some of the beef grease instead of butter to start your cream sauce, enhancing the savory beef flavor. Remember to swap out the chicken stock for beef stock to ensure a cohesive flavor profile that perfectly complements the beef.
We are big fans of sharp cheddar cheese in our household, and it’s always my go-to choice for its robust flavor and excellent melting qualities. However, feel free to experiment with any cheese you love! Colby Jack offers a mild, creamy alternative, Monterey Jack provides a lovely melt, and a Mexican blend can add a touch of extra flavor. All these options will yield a delicious, bubbly cheese topping.
Yes, absolutely! If you have a preference for potato rounds over tater tots, or if that’s what you have on hand, they will work wonderfully as a substitute. The key is the crispy potato topping, and potato rounds will provide a similar delightful texture and flavor profile. Go for it – you’ll still achieve the same delicious, comforting outcome!
While rotisserie chicken makes this recipe incredibly convenient and quick, it is by no means mandatory. Any cooked and shredded chicken will work perfectly. This recipe is an excellent way to utilize leftover chicken from a previous meal, making it an economical and waste-reducing option. Simply shred or dice about 3 cups of your preferred cooked chicken.
Though I haven’t personally tested freezing a fully assembled Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie, it should hold up well. To ensure the best quality, allow the baked casserole to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This double layer of protection helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it in the oven until warmed through.
Any leftover Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh and delicious for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, simply place individual portions in the microwave until thoroughly heated. If reheating a larger portion, covering it with foil and warming it in the oven can help maintain its texture.
Essential Ingredients for Your Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie
Crafting this delightful Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie requires a blend of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, but here’s a list of the core components that come together to create this heartwarming dish:
- Butter (for a rich, flavorful base)
- Onion (diced, to add aromatic depth)
- All-purpose flour (for creating a creamy roux)
- Chicken stock or broth (the liquid foundation of our savory sauce)
- Spices: Paprika (optional, for a hint of color and mild flavor), onion powder, garlic powder, and dried thyme (these blend to create the signature pot pie flavor)
- Cream cheese (cubed and softened, for an extra layer of creaminess and richness – optional but highly recommended)
- Milk (to achieve the perfect sauce consistency)
- Frozen mixed vegetables (a convenient and colorful addition, bringing essential nutrients)
- Rotisserie chicken (diced or shredded, for ease and flavor, or any cooked chicken you prefer)
- Frozen tater tots (the star topping, offering a crispy contrast)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (for a bubbly, cheesy layer over the tater tots)
- Salt and ground black pepper (to taste, enhancing all the flavors)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for an optional vibrant garnish)
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step towards a truly memorable meal that will gather everyone around the table with eager anticipation.
How to Prepare Your Delicious Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie
Making this Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie is a straightforward process, resulting in a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better. Follow these simple steps for a perfect, family-pleasing meal:
- Prepare Your Baking Dish and Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside. This ensures a clean release and easy cleanup later.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large, sturdy skillet set over medium-high heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is shimmering, add the diced small yellow onion. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your pot pie.
- Build the Roux and Season: Next, stir in the seasonings: ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika (if using), ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom. Then, whisk in the 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Continue to cook and stir for 1-2 minutes, until the flour forms a light golden roux. This will thicken your sauce.
- Create the Creamy Base: Gradually pour in the 2 cups of chicken stock or broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Continue whisking frequently for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a rich consistency and become well combined. The constant whisking is key here for a smooth sauce.
- Incorporate Cream Cheese and Milk: Turn the heat down to its lowest setting. Add the 4 ounces of cubed, softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of milk to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and is fully blended into the sauce, creating an even richer and creamier texture. This step adds a luxurious depth to the pot pie filling.
- Add Chicken and Vegetables: Turn off the heat. Stir in the 10-ounce bag of frozen mixed vegetables and the 3 cups of diced rotisserie chicken (or your preferred cooked chicken). Stir gently until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the entire chicken and vegetable mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out to form a uniform layer.
- Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the chicken mixture. It’s okay if you don’t use the entire 32-ounce bag; just make sure the top is covered uniformly.
- First Bake: Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes. The tater tots should be cooked through and beautifully golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling around the edges.
- Add Cheese Topping: Carefully remove the dish from the oven. Evenly sprinkle the 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the golden tater tots.
- Final Bake (Melt Cheese): Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly. For an extra crispy cheese topping, you can opt to place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching it very closely to prevent burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Once removed from the oven, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness!
Tips for Success & Variations:
To ensure your Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:
- Cream Cheese Alternative: If you don’t have cream cheese or prefer to omit it, the recipe will still be delicious! The cream cheese simply adds an extra layer of richness and creaminess, but it’s not essential for the sauce to thicken and be flavorful.
- Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes added with the other seasonings can provide a pleasant kick.
- Vegetable Mix: Feel free to customize your vegetable blend. Peas, carrots, corn, and green beans are classic choices, but broccoli florets or diced bell peppers could also be tasty additions. Just ensure they are frozen or pre-cooked to soften adequately during baking.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and vegetable filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, spread it into the dish, top with frozen tater tots and cheese, and proceed with the baking instructions. You might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the initial bake time if the filling is very cold.
- Serving Suggestions: This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a light side salad dressed with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of crusty bread for dipping into any extra sauce is also a delightful addition.
Looking for More Delicious Recipes?
If you loved this Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of comforting and easy-to-make recipes that feature both chicken pot pie flavors and the versatile tater tot. Explore these other family-friendly options:
- Crock Pot Chicken Tater Tot Casserole
- Classic Tater Tot Casserole
- Tater Tot Enchilada Bake
- Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
- Tachos (Tater Tot Nachos)
- Jalapeño Popper Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
- Shepherd’s Pie Tater Tot Casserole
- Chicken Pot Pie Bubble Up
- Poppy Seed Chicken
- Loaded Tater Tot Cups
Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie
Are you a pot pie fan? How about making a fun twist on the usual pot pie and make this Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie! Kid approved!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
Author: Brandie Skibinski
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Ingredients
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 Tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, cubed and softened to room temperature (optional, see notes below)
- ¼ cup milk
- 10 ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables
- 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 32 ounce bag frozen tater tots
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 Tablespoons butter. Add 1 small yellow onion, diced and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Next, whisk in 4 Tablespoons all purpose flour and keep stirring while it cooks for about 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly pour 2 cups chicken stock or broth into the flour mixture (whisking constantly) along with ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon paprika, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon kosher salt and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Whisk to get out any lumps. Bring to a boil, then turn down the heat and allow the mixture to gently simmer. Whisk frequently for another 1-2 minutes until the mixture has thickened and is well combined.
- Turn the heat all the way down to low then stir in 4 ounces (1/2 block) cream cheese, cubed and softened to room temperature and ¼ cup milk until well blended. Whisk constantly until the cream cheese has melted and is combined.
- Turn off the heat then add in 10 ounce bag frozen mixed vegetables and 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken and stir to coat.
- Spread the mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Place 32 ounce bag frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture (it’s okay if you don’t use them all). Bake in the preheated oven for about 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are cooked through and a golden brown color.
- Finally, sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the tater tots.
- Bake for another 4-5 minutes for the cheese to melt (or place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes for a crispier cheese topping.)
- Garnish with a little parsley (optional) then serve immediately.
Notes
- Tater tots do not need to be defrosted for this recipe.
- If you don’t like cream cheese or don’t have it on hand, simply leave it out. You don’t need to replace it with anything. It primarily adds extra creaminess to the mixture.
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition (Estimated Per Serving)
Calories: 620 kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 36g | Fat: 35g | Sodium: 1418mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 3g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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