Save A comforting twist on the classic chicken pot pie, topped with crispy tater tots instead of pastry. Budget-friendly, hearty, and perfect for family dinners.
I first made this for a cozy Sunday dinner and everyone loved how the golden tater tots brought a fun crunch to a classic dish. The simple prep makes it one of our go-to comfort recipes when schedules get busy.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
- Frozen mixed vegetables: 1 ½ cups (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1 ½ cups
- Milk: ½ cup (any type)
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Dried thyme: ½ teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 (28-ounce) bag
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): ½ cup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Set oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Onion:
- Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add Flour:
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Make Sauce:
- Slowly whisk in chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until thickened, 3-4 minutes.
- Season and Simmer:
- Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in mixed vegetables and chicken. Simmer 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
- Assemble:
- Transfer filling to a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Tater Tots:
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over filling.
- Bake:
- Bake 30-35 minutes until tater tots are golden and crispy. If desired, sprinkle cheddar cheese over tots in final 5 minutes.
- Rest:
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Save 
Save This dish always reminds me of winter evenings when the whole family gathers, everyone digging in for seconds and sharing stories around the warm dinner table.
Required Tools
Large skillet, whisk, 9x13-inch baking dish, oven
Allergen Information
Contains milk and wheat. May contain soy or egg depending on cheese and tater tot brand. Check all labels for your needs.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 390 calories, 18 g fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 19 g protein
Save 
Save This easy casserole brings classic comfort to any night. Serve piping hot for the best taste and texture.
Common Questions
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Yes, turkey or ham can be used instead of chicken to vary the flavor while keeping the same comforting texture.
- → Are fresh vegetables suitable in this dish?
Fresh vegetables work well and can be used in place of frozen, adjusting cooking times slightly to ensure tenderness.
- → What makes tater tots a good topping choice?
Tater tots become golden and crispy in the oven, providing a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy filling underneath.
- → Can cheese be added to this dish?
Sprinkling shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots during the last few minutes of baking adds a rich, melty layer of flavor.
- → How can I enhance the seasoning without overpowering the dish?
A pinch of paprika or additional herbs like thyme or parsley can be added to boost flavor without overwhelming the balance.
- → What are some serving suggestions?
This dish pairs nicely with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to complete the meal.