Introduction

BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender shredded chicken with tangy BBQ sauce and crispy tater tots, this casserole is sure to please the whole family.

BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen corn
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 bag frozen tater tots (32-ounce)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and stir well.
Step 4: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, frozen corn, diced red onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl and mix everything together.
Step 5: Spread the chicken mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top.
Step 6: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a handful of sliced jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Substitute shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for a different cheese flavor.
Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra tenderness.
Mix in some cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the tater tots regain their crispiness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh corn kernels. Just make sure they are cooked or blanched slightly before adding to the casserole to maintain the right texture.

Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.

BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 57 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish featuring shredded chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, mixed with cheddar cheese, corn, and onions, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for a family-friendly dinner, it combines smoky, savory, and sweet flavors with an easy one-dish preparation baked to perfection.

Author: Nora
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie or homemade)
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or flavor)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup frozen corn
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Topping

1 bag frozen tater tots (32 ounces)

Garnish

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole.
Prepare Chicken: Shred your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces for easy distribution throughout the casserole.
Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce. Stir well to coat all the chicken evenly.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, frozen corn, diced red onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then spread the chicken mixture evenly across the bottom.
Add Topping: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the chicken mixture to create a crispy top.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the tater tots turn golden brown and crispy.
Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh touch.

Notes

You can substitute the shredded chicken with leftover cooked chicken for convenience.
For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
If you prefer a milder onion flavor, sauté the red onions slightly before adding them.
This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking for busy weeknights.
Use a baking dish with high sides to avoid spills during baking.
Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set and makes it easier to serve.

Keywords: BBQ chicken casserole, tater tot casserole, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, baked casserole