If you’ve ever wished for a dinner that’s both cozy and incredibly easy to make, Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots might just become your new favorite. This recipe combines the creamy, savory goodness of classic chicken pot pie with the irresistible crunch of golden tater tots. The result? A comforting dish that’s hearty enough for adults yet fun and kid-approved. What makes this version stand out is its simplicity—no need for pie crusts or complicated steps. Everything bakes together beautifully in one dish, making cleanup a breeze.
Whether you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooking fresh, this tater tot twist is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s also a fantastic way to bring everyone together around the table. For another creamy, indulgent dinner idea, check out our Chicken Alfredo Meets Lasagna Recipe, another comfort favorite with a cheesy twist.
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What Makes Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots So Special
A Modern Take on a Classic Comfort Dish
Traditional chicken pot pie has always been about warmth, flavor, and nostalgia. But instead of using pie crust, this recipe replaces it with a layer of crisp tater tots. That golden top adds a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling beneath. It’s everything you love about a casserole, combined with the soul of a pot pie.
Family-Friendly and Weeknight-Ready
This version isn’t just delicious—it’s practical. From prep to plate, the dish takes less than an hour, and most of the ingredients are pantry staples. Kids love the crispy tots, while adults appreciate the rich, homemade filling. Plus, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate it until dinner, making it ideal for meal prepping or family gatherings.
Ingredients for Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting dish.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Onion, diced | 1 small |
| All-purpose flour | 4 tablespoons |
| Chicken stock or broth | 2 cups |
| Cream cheese, cubed | 4 ounces |
| Milk | ¼ cup |
| Frozen mixed vegetables | 10 ounces |
| Cooked rotisserie chicken, diced | 3 cups |
| Frozen tater tots | 32 ounces |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 1½ cups |
Optional Seasonings and Add-Ins
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for color)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to get creative! Swap the chicken for turkey, use Colby Jack instead of cheddar, or even try it with potato rounds for a similar crisp texture.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots
1. Prepare the Creamy Chicken Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and spraying a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until it forms a light roux.
Slowly whisk in chicken stock while stirring to avoid lumps. Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in cream cheese and milk. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Finally, add frozen vegetables and diced rotisserie chicken. Stir to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
2. Assemble the Casserole
Pour the creamy filling into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Layer frozen tater tots across the top in a single, even layer. No need to thaw them—frozen tots crisp up better during baking.
3. Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the dish, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for 5 minutes—or broil for 1–2 minutes for that golden cheesy finish.
4. Serve and Garnish
Once baked, remove the dish and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or fresh herbs if you like.
Serve it hot with a simple garden salad or soft dinner rolls for a complete comfort meal.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Tater Tot Pot Pie
Use Rotisserie Chicken for Speed
Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken not only saves time but also adds great flavor to your filling.
Don’t Thaw the Tater Tots
Always use frozen tots—they bake up crispier than thawed ones.
Adjust the Creaminess to Your Taste
If you love a richer texture, add an extra tablespoon of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk.
Make It Ahead
You can prepare the filling and assemble the dish a day before. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge for a few extra minutes.
Freezer-Friendly Tip
This dish freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until heated through.
Variations of Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots
Beef or Turkey Version
Swap the chicken for ground beef or leftover turkey. Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a rich, hearty flavor.
Cheese Lover’s Twist
For those who can’t get enough cheese, mix some shredded cheddar or mozzarella into the filling before baking for extra creaminess.
Vegetarian Version
Skip the meat entirely and load your dish with mushrooms, peas, carrots, and corn. A sprinkle of smoked paprika gives it a deep, savory taste.
Add Some Heat
If you like a bit of spice, mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the creamy filling before baking.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Best Sides to Serve With Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots
- Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted green beans or steamed broccoli
- Warm buttered biscuits or garlic bread
Perfect Occasions
This dish shines as a weeknight dinner, potluck centerpiece, or comfort meal for guests. It’s easy to double the recipe for larger groups, too.
For another cozy dinner idea, check out Chicken Alfredo Meets Lasagna Recipe, an equally hearty and creamy option your family will love.
FAQ About Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots
Can I use frozen potato rounds instead of tater tots?
Yes, absolutely. Potato rounds work perfectly as a substitute. They create the same golden, crispy topping and hold up well during baking.
Do the tater tots need to be defrosted before baking?
No. Use them straight from the freezer for the best texture. Thawed tots tend to get mushy instead of crisping up nicely.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use certified gluten-free chicken stock.
What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar gives a classic, sharp flavor, but Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even Pepper Jack will melt beautifully and add extra flavor.
How can I make it lighter?
Use reduced-fat cheese, low-fat cream cheese, and skim milk. You’ll still get all the creamy texture without the heaviness.
Can I freeze Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots?
Yes! After baking, let it cool completely. Wrap it tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Conclusion: The Comfort Dish You’ll Make Again and Again
There’s something truly special about Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots — it’s simple, hearty, and downright satisfying. The creamy chicken filling pairs perfectly with crispy tots and melted cheese, creating that perfect balance of textures and flavors. Whether it’s a cold night in or a family gathering, this dish will warm both hearts and bellies.
Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation — once you try it, you’ll understand why this easy comfort classic gets rave reviews every time.
PrintChicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots
This Chicken Pot Pie with Tater Tots recipe is a comforting, family-friendly dinner that combines creamy chicken filling with crispy golden tater tots and melted cheese for the ultimate one-pan comfort meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken stock or broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/4 cup milk
- 10 ounces frozen mixed vegetables
- 3 cups cooked rotisserie chicken, diced
- 32 ounces frozen tater tots
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken stock until smooth. Add onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese and milk until smooth and creamy.
- Add frozen vegetables and diced chicken, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer on top of the chicken mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 35 minutes until tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for another 5 minutes, or broil for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- Keep tater tots frozen before baking for the crispiest result.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and low-fat milk.
- Can be assembled ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
