Introduction

This BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender shredded chicken with tangy BBQ sauce and crispy tater tots on top. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

2 cups cooked, shredded chicken (Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own.)
1 cup BBQ sauce (Choose your favorite brand or flavor.)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (This cheese melts beautifully.)
1 cup frozen corn (Adds sweetness and color.)
1/2 cup diced red onion (Provides a sharp flavor.)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (Enhances overall flavor.)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder (Adds depth to the onion flavor.)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (Adds a hint of spice.)
1 bag frozen tater tots (32-ounce bag, provides a crispy finish.)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (For garnish.)

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.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor twist.
Swap frozen corn for black beans or diced bell peppers to add variety.
For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking—watch closely to prevent burning.
Try adding a handful of chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. To maintain tater tot crispiness, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes rather than the microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, you can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs before assembling the casserole. Just be sure to fully cook the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 107 reviews

This BBQ Chicken Tater Tot Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender shredded chicken smothered in tangy BBQ sauce, mixed with cheddar cheese, sweet corn, and aromatic spices, all topped with crispy golden tater tots. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this casserole is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.

Author: Ella
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

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
1 bag frozen tater tots (32 ounces)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
Prepare Chicken: Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces to allow even mixing and easier eating.
Mix Chicken and BBQ Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and stir thoroughly until the chicken is well coated.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the shredded cheddar cheese, frozen corn, diced red onion, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Spread the chicken and veggie mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish.
Top with Tater Tots: Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture, covering it completely for a crispy topping.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the tater tots on top are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is heated through.
Cool and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh touch.

Notes

Use rotisserie chicken to save time or cook your own chicken breast or thighs.
Feel free to substitute cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for different flavors.
For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
Let the casserole rest after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
You can prepare this casserole a day ahead and bake it just before serving.

Keywords: BBQ Chicken, Tater Tot Casserole, Comfort Food, Easy Casserole, Family Dinner