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Honey Mustard Chicken & Tater Tot Casserole

Description: This comforting casserole combines tender chicken pieces with a tangy honey mustard sauce, topped with crispy tater tots and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

🕒 Prep & Cook Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

🍽️ Servings

Serves 6–8 people

🛒 Ingredients

2 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup honey mustard dressing
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 bag (approximately 32 oz) frozen tater tots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mix the honey mustard dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until well coated.
Arrange the marinated chicken in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Top the chicken with a layer of frozen tater tots.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tater tots.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the tater tots are golden brown

🔄 Variations

Buffalo Chicken: Mix in buffalo sauce with the honey mustard for a spicy kick.
BBQ Chicken: Use BBQ sauce instead of honey mustard for a smoky flavor.
Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh.
Cheesy Bacon: Add crumbled bacon and extra cheese for a richer taste.
Tex-Mex: Incorporate taco seasoning and top with jalapeños and sour cream.

🥗 Serving Tips

Salads: Pair with a fresh green salad or a tangy coleslaw.
Sides: Serve alongside roasted vegetables or garlic bread.
Sauces: Offer dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese, or extra honey mustard

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use cooked or rotisserie chicken to ensure even cooking.
Do I need to thaw the tater tots?
No, add them directly from the freezer.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Can I use ground chicken instead of breast?
Yes, brown the ground chicken before mixing with the sauce.
What if I don’t have honey mustard?
Mix equal parts honey and mustard as a substitute.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes, consider adding peas, corn, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
How can I make it spicier?
Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, including tater tots and sauces, are gluten-free.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, mozzarella or gouda are great alternatives.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15–20 minutes.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the chicken mixture in the slow cooker and top with baked tater tots before serving.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for this recipe.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger casserole dish and adjust baking time as needed.
Should I cover the casserole while baking?
No, uncover to allow the tater tots to become crispy.
Can I use fresh chicken?
Yes, cook and cut into pieces before mixing with the sauce.
How can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy dressing.
Can I add bacon?
Yes, crumbled bacon adds a delicious flavor.
How do I make the tater tots extra crispy?
Place them in a single layer and bake without covering.

💡 Tips for Success

Even Layering: Arrange tater tots in a single layer for uniform crispiness.
Pre-cooked Chicken: Using cooked chicken ensures even cooking and saves time.
Crispy Tots: Bake uncovered to achieve a golden, crispy topping.
Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for