chicken tots recipe
Are you ready to dive into the world of crispy, cheesy goodness? Let me introduce you to my favorite comfort food: Chicken Tots! this dish combines tender chicken, delicious veggies, and golden tater tots topped with a creamy sauce—what’s not to love? Buckle up, as I’m here to guide you step-by-step to create this mouthwatering treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Tots
Making Chicken Tots is all about using fresh, easy-to-find ingredients that come together for an incredible meal. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish:
- 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken thighs: These provide a tender and juicy base.
- 1 (1 pound) bag frozen tater tots: The star of the dish! I love using frozen tots for convenience and that perfect crunch.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Just enough to enhance the flavors!
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: this adds a subtle kick.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: If you like a bit of heat,this will do the trick.
- 1 tablespoon butter: For that rich and creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup diced red onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
- 1 cup diced sweet bell pepper: Choose your favorite color for a vibrant touch.
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeno pepper: For those who enjoy a spicy twist!
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic goodness.
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions: They not only look pretty but also add a fresh flavor.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: This will brighten up the dish.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Use low-sodium for control over the saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: For that melty, cheesy finish!
With these simple ingredients, you’ll create a hearty, delightful meal that everyone will love. Let’s get started on making it!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Tots
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these tasty Chicken Tots! Follow these steps for a fun cooking experience:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).This is crucial for getting your tater tots nice and crispy.
- Prepare the sheet pan by lining it with foil and spraying it lightly with cooking spray. This helps with cleanup later.
- Spread the tater tots in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan. Give them a fast spray with your cooking spray to promote browning as they bake.
- Bake the tater tots in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, keep them warm in the oven while you prepare the chicken.
- Season the chicken thighs on both sides with kosher salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. This simple seasoning packs a punch!
- Melt the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s melted and sizzling, add the chicken thighs. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are no longer pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
- in the same skillet, add the diced red onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the onions are translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, chicken broth, and any juices from the cooked chicken. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the liquids to reduce by half.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Stir in the bite-sized chicken pieces and let it cook on low for about 5 minutes, until everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Finish off the sauce by stirring in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese until it melts beautifully.
- Serve the creamy chicken mixture generously over your crispy tater tots and enjoy every bite!
With these clear steps, you’ll have a delicious plate of Chicken tots ready to impress friends and family. Happy cooking!
Serving and Storage Tips for Your Chicken Tots
Once you’ve made this delightful dish, you’ll want to enjoy it at its best. Here are some serving and storage tips to maximize your experience with these Chicken Tots:
Serving Suggestions
- Best Enjoyed Fresh: For the ultimate taste, serve your Chicken Tots immediately after cooking. They’ll be at their crispiest, and the sauce will be deliciously warm.
- Perfect Pairings: Consider serving your Chicken Tots with a side of ranch dressing or sriracha mayo for a zesty dipping experience. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top can add a pop of color and flavor.
- Serving Size: This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. If you’re sharing, prepare to wow your guests!
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that the tater tots may lose some of their crispiness when reheated.
- Reheating: For the best texture, reheat your Chicken Tots in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore some of the crunchiness. Alternatively,you can use an air fryer for quicker heating and better results.
- Freezing Tips: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the tater tots.Store them in freezer-safe bags or containers and consume them within 3 months.To enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
By following these serving and storage suggestions, you can savor your Chicken Tots at their best, whether fresh out of the oven or as a delightful leftover treat.
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Tots
Cooking can sometimes present unexpected challenges, but don’t worry! Here are some handy notes and troubleshooting tips to ensure your Chicken Tots turn out perfectly every time:
Cooking Notes
- Substitutions: If you don’t have chicken thighs, feel free to use boneless chicken breasts. Just be aware that breasts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid dryness.
- Vegetable Variations: You can mix and match the vegetables based on your preference. as an example, zucchini or mushrooms can add a different flavor profile.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Sauce Too Thick: If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, simply add a splash more chicken broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Tater Tots Not Crisping: If you find that your tater tots aren’t browning as was to be expected, make sure they are spread out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than crisping.
- Too Spicy? If the dish turns out spicier than you’d prefer, balance it with a touch of honey or sugar in the sauce, which can help mellow the heat.
With these notes and troubleshooting tips in hand, you’re set for success with your Chicken Tots. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious creation!