Chicken Pot Pie Tater is a delightful twist on a classic dish that warms the heart and soul. This comforting casserole combines tender chicken and savory vegetables, all topped with crispy tater tots for that perfect crunch. Ideal for cozy nights, this dish is not only easy to make but also a surefire hit with the family. Whether you’re looking to indulge or simply need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Pot Pie Tater
There are countless reasons to love this Chicken Pot Pie Tater. First, it’s incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor. The combination of chicken and tater tots creates a delightful texture contrast. Plus, it’s an easy one-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze. This dish is also versatile; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings, and it appeals to both kids and adults alike. With its rich taste and crispy topping, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie Tater
Gather these items:
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Substitution Note: Use olive oil for a lighter option.)
- 2 cups Chicken Breasts (Substitution Note: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey can be used.)
- 1 large Yellow Onion (Substitution Note: Shallots for a milder taste.)
- 2 stalks Celery (Substitution Note: Fennel can add a unique twist.)
- 2 medium Carrots (Substitution Note: Frozen mixed vegetables for a shortcut.)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Substitution Note: Garlic powder can be used.)
- 1/4 cup Flour (Substitution Note: Gluten-free flour can be used.)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (Substitution Note: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.)
- 1 cup Milk (Substitution Note: Non-dairy milk alternatives can be used.)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Thyme (No substitutions suggested.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (No substitutions suggested.)
- to taste Salt (No substitutions suggested.)
- to taste Pepper (No substitutions suggested.)
- 1 cup Frozen Peas (Substitution Note: Fresh peas can be used if in season.)
- 1 cup Frozen Corn (Substitution Note: Fresh corn can be used if in season.)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Substitution Note: Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.)
- 1 bag Frozen Tater Tots (Substitution Note: Homemade or different brands may be experimented with.)
How to Make Chicken Pot Pie Tater Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Step 2: Melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in the same pot. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots, cooking for 7 to 10 minutes until tender and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Step 3: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the sautéed vegetables, cooking for a minute. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk while stirring. Allow to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened.
- Step 4: Stir in cooked chicken, thyme, nutmeg, salt, pepper, peas, and corn into the thickened gravy. Pour the filling into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Step 5: Sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the filling. Layer the top with frozen tater tots evenly for a crispy finish.
- Step 6: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until filling is bubbling and tater tots are golden brown.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken Pot Pie Tater
Keep these in mind:
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp.
- For a richer taste, add a splash of white wine to the gravy mixture.
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles.
- This recipe is perfect for making ahead; simply assemble and refrigerate before baking.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Pot Pie Tater
Serve this Chicken Pot Pie Tater with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side. You can also make it a full meal by pairing it with roasted vegetables. For an extra touch, consider offering a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for garnish.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Pot Pie Tater
To store, cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This dish is also great for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and stored for busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Pot Pie Tater
What’s the secret to perfect Chicken Pot Pie Tater?
The key to a perfect Chicken Pot Pie is in the balance of flavors and textures. Using a mix of fresh and frozen vegetables can enhance the taste without sacrificing convenience. Also, ensure your tater tots are evenly spread for that ideal crispy top.
Can I make Chicken Pot Pie Tater ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step. Cover it and place it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken Pot Pie Tater?
To avoid common pitfalls, make sure not to overcook the chicken or vegetables. Also, ensure your gravy is thick enough to hold the filling together but not too thick that it dries out during baking. Follow the instructions carefully for the best results.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie Tater You Can Try
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients. You can make a Tater Tot Chicken Pot Pie by swapping chicken for turkey or even creating a vegetarian version using mushrooms and lentils. Try adding different spices or using sweet potatoes for the topping for a new twist!
For more delicious recipes, check out Hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for something sweet, try Irresistible Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake for dessert!
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Chicken Pot Pie Tater: 5 Crispy Comfort Food Recipes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Comforting Chicken Pot Pie Tater Tot Casserole for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Butter (Substitution Note: Use olive oil for a lighter option.)
- 2 cups Chicken Breasts (Substitution Note: Shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey can be used.)
- 1 large Yellow Onion (Substitution Note: Shallots for a milder taste.)
- 2 stalks Celery (Substitution Note: Fennel can add a unique twist.)
- 2 medium Carrots (Substitution Note: Frozen mixed vegetables for a shortcut.)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Substitution Note: Garlic powder can be used.)
- 1/4 cup Flour (Substitution Note: Gluten-free flour can be used.)
- 1 cup Chicken Broth (Substitution Note: Vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.)
- 1 cup Milk (Substitution Note: Non-dairy milk alternatives can be used.)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Thyme (No substitutions suggested.)
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (No substitutions suggested.)
- to taste Salt (No substitutions suggested.)
- to taste Pepper (No substitutions suggested.)
- 1 cup Frozen Peas (Substitution Note: Fresh peas can be used if in season.)
- 1 cup Frozen Corn (Substitution Note: Fresh corn can be used if in season.)
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (Substitution Note: Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.)
- 1 bag Frozen Tater Tots (Substitution Note: Homemade or different brands may be experimented with.)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Melt another 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat in the same pot. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots, cooking for 7 to 10 minutes until tender and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle 1/4 cup of flour over the sautéed vegetables, cooking for a minute. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of milk while stirring. Allow to simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in cooked chicken, thyme, nutmeg, salt, pepper, peas, and corn into the thickened gravy. Pour the filling into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the filling. Layer the top with frozen tater tots evenly for a crispy finish.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until filling is bubbling and tater tots are golden brown.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg