There is nothing better than a warm casserole on a chilly fall evening. You want something filling but also very easy to make. This Chicken Alfredo Tater Tot Casserole is the ultimate high-protein comfort meal. It brings together creamy sauce and crispy potatoes perfectly. Your whole family will love this cozy and satisfying dinner.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy weeknights. It uses simple ingredients you likely have in your freezer. The high-protein chicken keeps everyone full and happy. You will love how minimal the cleanup is after dinner. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. This dish makes cooking feel completely doable and fun.
Simple Method
Making this dish is incredibly simple and stress-free. You just mix the creamy base and layer the tots. Even beginner cooks can master this golden, bubbly meal. It takes very little effort to get on the table. You will feel like a kitchen pro today. Golden perfection is just a few steps away.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These mostly pantry staples come together for a rich and hearty meal.
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 15 oz alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, and milk.
- Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the chicken mixture in an even layer across the baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, tight layer over the top.
- Bake for 35 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Add the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the hot tots.
- Bake for 5 to 10 more minutes until the cheese is bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and let it set for 5 minutes before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm while the cheese is still stretchy. It looks beautiful with a sprinkle of fresh green parsley. Pair it with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. Steamed broccoli also goes wonderfully with the creamy alfredo sauce. Set the table and enjoy a relaxing family dinner tonight.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in your fridge. They will stay fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze this dish before the final bake. Reheat in the oven to keep the potatoes nice and crispy. The microwave works well for a quick weekday lunch too. It stays delicious even the next day.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a rotisserie chicken to save precious time on busy nights.
- Make sure the oven is fully preheated for the crispiest tots.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
- Arrange tots in a tight layer so every bite is perfect.
- Use a high-quality jarred sauce for the best overall flavor.
- Let the dish rest so the sauce can thicken slightly.
- Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a tiny kick.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add cooked broccoli florets into the chicken mixture for extra greens.
- Swap the chicken for cooked ground turkey for a different protein.
- Use a gluten-free alfredo sauce to meet your dietary needs.
- Stir in some bacon bits for a smoky flavor boost.
Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken base a day early. Just add the frozen tots right before you put it in the oven. This keeps the potatoes from getting soggy while they wait.
How do I get the tots extra crispy?
A very hot oven is the secret to perfect potato nuggets. Make sure you don’t crowd them too much in the dish. High heat ensures that golden-brown crunch you love.
I hope this warm, cheesy meal brings a little extra joy to your kitchen tonight. It is the perfect way to end a busy fall day with the people you love.
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 32 oz frozen tater tots
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
- 15 oz alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, alfredo sauce, milk, minced garlic, oregano, and black pepper. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Spread the chicken mixture in an even layer across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken mixture.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single, tight layer over the cheese and chicken base.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden and crispy.
- Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella and the parmesan cheese over the tots.
- Return to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and allow the casserole to set for 5 minutes before serving.
