INGREDIENTS
2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
3 cups frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup carrots, diced
1/2 cup green peas
1/2 cup bell peppers, diced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon flour
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat your oven to 200°C. Place the tater tots on a baking tray and bake for about 20 minutes until golden and crispy. Set aside.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in carrots, peas, and bell peppers. Cook for 5 minutes until slightly tender.
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and mix well. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in milk and cream while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens.
Stir in the cooked chicken and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well coated.
Arrange the crispy tater tots on top of the mixture in the skillet.
Sprinkle remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm.
TIPS
Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation and extra flavor.
Do not skip baking the tater tots first; this keeps them crispy even after adding sauce.
For a richer taste, replace milk with more cream.
Stir the sauce continuously to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it.
VARIATIONS
Add cooked mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Replace chicken with ground beef or turkey for a different protein option.
Use spicy cheese or add chili flakes for a spicy version.
For a healthier twist, use low-fat milk and reduce cheese
Add corn or zucchini for extra vegetables and color.
This dish combines crispy, creamy, and cheesy textures in one pan, making it perfect for a comforting family meal.
