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 first made this recipe when I had leftover rotisserie chicken and a bag of tater tots in the freezer. It quickly became a go-to comfort food that my whole family requests when the weather turns chilly.
Ingredients
- Protein: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie or leftover chicken works well)
- Vegetables: 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans), 1 small onion, diced
- Sauce: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth, ½ cup milk (any type), ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Topping: 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sauté Onion:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Make Roux:
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add Liquid:
- Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Season and Combine:
- Add the garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in the mixed vegetables and chicken. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Assemble:
- 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 the tater tots are golden and crispy. If desired, sprinkle cheddar cheese over the tots in the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save 
Save This pot pie made everyone at our table smile, especially after soccer practice. My kids love helping arrange the tater tots on top and counting them as they line them up!
Required Tools
Large skillet, whisk, 9x13-inch baking dish, oven
Allergen Information
Contains milk and wheat (gluten). May contain soy or egg, depending on tater tot brand or cheese used. Always check all ingredient labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories per serving: 390. Total Fat: 18 g. Carbohydrates: 36 g. Protein: 19 g.
Save 
Save Serve hot and enjoy the crunchy golden top and creamy filling. This dish reheats well for easy leftovers!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute the chicken with other meats?
Yes, turkey or ham can be used as alternatives to chicken for a different flavor profile.
- → What vegetables work best in this dish?
Frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, corn, and green beans blend well, but fresh or canned options also work.
- → How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Baking the tater tots until they turn golden and adding cheese in the last few minutes enhances crispiness and flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
You can assemble the filling and topping, then refrigerate before baking to save time on cooking day.
- → What seasonings enhance the flavor?
Garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper provide a warm, savory base; paprika or fresh herbs add extra depth.