A comforting, golden-baked casserole layered with tender chicken, crispy tater tots, bell peppers, and melted cheese. It’s a quick, hearty meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-dish dinner: Everything cooks together in one baking dish—minimal cleanup.
Family favorite: Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy tots—it’s always a hit.
Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples and frozen tater tots.
Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead and reheat for a quick weekday meal.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
Frozen tater tots
Bell peppers (red and yellow), diced
Onion, chopped
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Cream of chicken or mushroom soup
Sour cream
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt and black pepper
Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare filling: In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken, chopped onions, diced bell peppers, sour cream, cream soup, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the casserole: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with a layer of shredded cheese.
Add tater tots: Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the cheese.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
Finish: Remove from oven, sprinkle with more cheese if desired, and bake for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. Microwave is acceptable for individual portions, but oven keeps the tots crispier.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken?

No, it’s best to use pre-cooked chicken since the casserole doesn’t cook long enough to safely cook raw chicken.

Can I use different vegetables?

Yes, try peas, carrots, broccoli, or green beans for variety.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend all melt well and add flavor.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes. Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze unbaked. Thaw in refrigerator overnight before baking.

Can I make it without soup?

You can substitute soup with a homemade roux or a mix of sour cream and broth.

Is this casserole spicy?

Not inherently. Add jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer heat.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Use a plant-based meat substitute or just load it up with veggies and skip the chicken.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great healthier substitute for sour cream.

Do I need to thaw the tater tots first?

No, use them straight from the freezer for the best texture.

Can I add bacon?

Yes, cooked and crumbled bacon is a delicious addition to this casserole.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, crispy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day, it’s a simple dish that always satisfies. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses and make it your own.