Save A comforting twist on the classic chicken pot pie, topped with crispy tater tots instead of pastry. Budget-friendly, hearty, and perfect for family dinners.
I made this for my kids on a chilly weeknight and everyone went back for seconds. Using leftover chicken saved time and the tater tots brought everyone to the table with smiles.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: 2 cups, shredded or diced (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
- Frozen mixed vegetables: 1 ½ cups (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- Onion: 1 small, diced
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1 ½ cups
- Milk: ½ cup (any type)
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Dried thyme: ½ teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Frozen tater tots: 1 (28-ounce) bag
- Shredded cheddar cheese: ½ cup (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook Onion:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add Flour:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Make Sauce:
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season & Add Filling:
- Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in mixed vegetables and chicken. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Transfer & Top:
- Transfer the filling to a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Add Tater Tots:
- Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling.
- Bake:
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until tater tots are golden and crispy. If desired, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the tots in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Rest & Serve:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save 
Save This is my daughter's favorite comfort food and she always asks for seconds when we make it. Sharing warm, bubbly pot pie from one dish makes everyone feel at home.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pot pie with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced dinner everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Variations
Swap out the chicken for turkey or diced ham to use up leftovers, or try adding a pinch of paprika for a hint of smoky flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness to the tater tots.
Save 
Save This easy meal brings cozy vibes and is sure to become a go-to dinner. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used. Adjust cooking times to ensure they soften properly before baking.
- → What can I substitute for chicken?
Turkey or ham are good alternatives that work well with the creamy vegetable base and crispy topping.
- → How do I make the topping extra crispy?
Preheat the oven thoroughly and bake the tater tots uncovered until they turn golden brown, ensuring maximum crispness.
- → Is cheddar cheese necessary for the topping?
Cheddar cheese is optional but adds a rich, melty layer enhancing both flavor and texture.
- → Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Yes, the filling can be made in advance. Store it refrigerated and assemble with tater tots just before baking.
- → What tools are needed to prepare this dish?
A large skillet for cooking the filling, a whisk for combining ingredients, and a 9x13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking.