There’s just something about comfort food that wraps you in a warm hug, and my crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole is the ultimate cozy dish! I mean, who can resist creamy, cheesy goodness topped with crispy tater tots? It’s like a party for your taste buds, and it’s so easy to make! I love how this recipe combines tender chicken, rich flavors, and that satisfying crunch from the tater tots. Seriously, it’s a dish that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. And let me tell you, the best part is throwing everything into the crockpot and letting it do all the work. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is absolutely irresistible! You’ll find yourself dreaming about it long before it’s ready. So grab your favorite comfy blanket, settle in, and let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients List

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some details about each one:

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for ease. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces so it mixes well with the other ingredients.
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz): This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try a homemade version for even more taste!
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but feel free to mix it up with mild or even pepper jack for a kick!
1 cup sour cream: This gives the casserole a rich, tangy depth. Full-fat sour cream works best, but you can use low-fat if you prefer.
1 bag frozen tater tots (32 oz): The star of the show! No need to thaw them; just spread them straight from the bag onto your mixture for that crispy top.
1/2 cup diced onion: Fresh onion adds a nice crunch and sweetness. You can use yellow or white onions, depending on your preference.
1 tsp garlic powder: This boosts the flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic. If you’re a garlic lover, you can definitely increase the amount!
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! A little salt and pepper will bring all the flavors together beautifully.

Make sure you have everything ready before you start cooking to keep the process smooth and fun!

How to Prepare the Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Tater Tot Casserole

Now, let’s get to the fun part—making the crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole! This recipe is super straightforward, and I promise you’ll have it prepped and ready to go in no time. So, grab your crockpot and let’s dive in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, take your cooked chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, it’s already seasoned and shredded, which makes this step a breeze! Just toss it into your crockpot.
Next, add the cream of chicken soup into the mix. This is where the creaminess magic happens! Use a spatula to help get every last drop out of the can—don’t want to miss any flavor.
Then, it’s time to sprinkle in that delicious shredded cheddar cheese. I like to use sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but honestly, any cheese you love will work just fine. Mix it all together gently until everything is nicely combined.
Now, add in the sour cream and diced onion. This adds an extra layer of richness and sweetness you won’t want to skip! Give it a good stir to incorporate everything evenly.
Don’t forget the garlic powder, salt, and pepper! These will enhance all those comforting flavors. Just a teaspoon of garlic powder works wonders, but if you’re a garlic enthusiast, feel free to add a touch more!
Once everything is mixed well, it’s time for the frozen tater tots! Just spread them evenly over the top of the mixture—no need to thaw them first! They’ll bake up crispy and golden right in the crockpot.
Now, cover your crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. The beauty of this dish is that you can walk away and let it do its thing while you go about your day. Just make sure to check it around the 4-hour mark. You’ll know it’s ready when everything is heated through and the tater tots are nice and crispy on top.
Once it’s done, scoop out a hearty serving and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness you’ve created! Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table.

And there you have it! A simple, hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite of this delightful casserole!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying my crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole, it’s always good to know what you’re putting on your plate! Each serving is about 1 cup and packs a satisfying punch with approximately 450 calories. You’ll find 25g of protein to keep you full, along with 35g of carbohydrates and 25g of fat. Just a heads up—nutrition values can vary based on the brands and specific ingredients you choose, so consider this as a general guideline. It’s always a good idea to check your labels for the most accurate information. Enjoy your delicious creation without worry!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe comes together in just a few minutes! With everything going into the crockpot, you can set it and forget it.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with tender chicken, creamy cheese, and crispy tater tots, this casserole is a meal that satisfies every craving.
Comforting Flavors: The rich, cheesy goodness is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those cozy nights in.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this dish—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese for a fun twist!
Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Tips for Success

Getting the most out of your crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole is all about a few simple tricks! First, don’t rush the mixing—making sure everything is well combined ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. If you want an extra cheesy experience, consider adding a bit more cheese on top about 30 minutes before it’s done cooking. This will create a delicious, gooey layer! Also, keep an eye on the tater tots; some slow cookers run hotter than others, so you may want to check for crispiness around the 4-hour mark. If you’re adding veggies like peas or corn, toss them in with the chicken mixture so they cook evenly. Lastly, always taste before serving; a little extra salt or pepper can really elevate the dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Variations

The beauty of my crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole is its flexibility! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Cheese Options: While I love sharp cheddar, you can mix it up with mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture, or try pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Veggie Add-Ins: Want to sneak in some greens? Toss in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers with the chicken mixture. They add color and nutrition!
Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for cooked ground beef or even turkey for a different flavor profile. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the crockpot.
Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning to elevate the flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the dish when serving!
BBQ Twist: For a fun twist, mix in some BBQ sauce with the chicken for a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy components.

Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole, the right sides can take your meal to the next level! I love serving it with a crisp green salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the greens balances the richness of the casserole beautifully. You could also pair it with some warm, crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up all that cheesy goodness. If you’re in the mood for something a bit heartier, a side of steamed broccoli or green beans adds a nice pop of color and nutrition. And let’s not forget about a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top—it brings a delightful brightness to each bite. Whatever you choose, these sides will make your comforting casserole meal even more satisfying!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftovers from my crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave until heated through—about 2-3 minutes should do the trick. If you prefer to reheat the whole casserole, pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Enjoy those comforting flavors all over again!

For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!

Crockpot Cheesy Chicken Tater Tot Casserole: 7 Cozy Comforts

Author: Louna
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and hearty dish featuring chicken, cheese, and tater tots cooked in a crockpot.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 bag frozen tater tots (32 oz)
1/2 cup diced onion
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Combine shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, sour cream, diced onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the crockpot.
Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
Spread the frozen tater tots evenly on top of the mixture.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until heated through.
Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn.
Adjust cheese types for different flavors.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Category: Casserole
Method: Crockpot
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 450
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: crockpot cheesy chicken tater tot casserole

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