Description
This Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie is a comforting casserole combining tender cooked chicken, savory mixed vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. Easy to prepare and perfect for a hearty family meal, it combines traditional pot pie flavors with a fun twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 3 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Topping:
- 32-ounce bag frozen tater tots
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
- Create Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring continuously to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and begin thickening.
- Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce consistency.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: Stir in the cooked chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the filling mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the filling for added flavor and richness.
- Add Topping: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, even layer over the filling to create a crispy, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy on top.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the filling set slightly and make it easier to serve.
Notes
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Frozen mixed vegetables typically include peas, carrots, corn, and green beans, but feel free to customize based on preference.
- If you prefer a thicker filling, add slightly more flour when making the roux.
- For a cheesier dish, increase the cheddar cheese or sprinkle some on top of the tater tots before baking.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps the filling set and enhances slicing.
