Jalapeño Popper Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
This jalapeño popper tater tot chicken casserole combines all the elements of the jalapeño popper appetizer with the comforting familiarity of a classic chicken casserole.
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There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling the kitchen with savory aromas. This casserole combines flavors of jalapeño poppers, such as, spicy jalapeños, smoky bacon, and lots of cheese and incorporates tender, shredded chicken along with crispy tater tots. Great for feeding a crowd of hungry people and even better in a deep bowl cozied up to episode 9 of season 3 of Emily In Paris, helping myself to as many servings as needed.
Ingredient Notes
Shredded chicken – there are so many uses for rotisserie chicken and this is one of them. I typically pick one up or roast a whole bird myself for the week. We always shred it and throw some into salads and use in other recipes. This week we also made bbq chicken loaded baked potato and was sooo good.Cheese – a cheesy blend of cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, creating a creamy binding sauce. A generous helping of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, ensuring each bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
Pickled & fresh jalapeños – using a combination of fresh and pickled jalapeños. The pickled ones are folded into the casserole and the fresh ones serve as a topping. I love the pickled jalapeños from TJ, they are slightly tamed and have a hint of sweetness. They are so addicting, I can eat them straight from the jar! But feel free to use fresh jalapeños instead of the pickled ones if that’s your jam.
Tater tots – tater tots bring a crunch to this casserole that no potato ever can. The casserole is done baking when the tots are slightly golden and crispy. They can be arranged in a pattern for the most visual appeal or simply spread into a single layer
Crispy bacon – because let’s face it, everything’s better with bacon. Half of it gets mixed into the creamy chicken mixture, while the other half serves as a delicious topping.
Fresh green onions – provide a pop of freshness to this casserole.
Seasoning – a dash of garlic powder, kosher salt, and cracked black pepper. If you have a favorite go-to seasoning, you can also use that instead of the garlic powder. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
FAQs
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold dish straight from the refrigerator.
- I’m not a fan of spicy food. Can I leave out the jalapeños? Of course! Even though the casserole is circled around jalapeños, you can omit them and have yourself a cheesy, bacon-y chicken casserole. There is plenty of flavor from all the other delicious ingredients.
- Can I substitute turkey bacon in this recipe? Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for the traditional bacon if you prefer. Just cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
- What can I serve with this casserole? This casserole is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can always pair it with a green or Caesar salad or some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casserole for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
- How can I make this casserole vegetarian? To make this casserole vegetarian, you can omit the shredded chicken and bacon. You can also use vegetarian bacon or leave it out altogether. Increase the amount of cheese or add your favorite vegetables to make up for the omitted meat.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? You can reheat leftovers of this casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warm.
- Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free tater tots and ensuring that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. Check the labels carefully, especially for items like bacon and shredded cheese, as some brands may contain gluten.
Creamy, cheesy, spicy, and oh-so-satisfying. This will not disappoint. Enjoy, friends!
If you love this casserole, check out a few of my favorite dishes!
Chicken Enchiladas With Green Chile Sauce
Roasted Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Cajun Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Crock-Pot Honey Garlic Chicken
If you make these Tater Tot Casserole, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! I’d love to hear what you think about it, or better yet, see what you’re cooking! Tag me on Instagram, @fettysfoodblog with your creation.
Jalapeño Popper Tater Tot Chicken Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups shredded chicken
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup diced pickled jalapeños adjust to taste
- 1 pound bacon cooked and crumbled, divided in half
- 3 green onions sliced, plus more for optional garnish
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
- 1 (32 oz) package frozen tater tots
- Sliced fresh jalapeños optional garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375F. Grease a 9×13 inch (or a large) baking dish with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, diced pickled jalapeños, half of the bacon, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the mixture and stir well to combine.
- Spread the creamy chicken mixture evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the chicken and cheese mixture in a single layer. You can pack them tightly to cover the entire surface.
- Place into the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. Top with remaining crumbled bacon, additional green onions, and sliced fresh jalapeños (optional).
