Cook the chicken: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the casserole mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, heavy cream, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined. Add the cooked chicken and mix again.
Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the chicken and sauce mixture evenly in the dish. Top with the frozen tater tots, arranging them in a single layer on top of the casserole.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbly.
Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor, if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Suggestions: Serve the casserole with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. It pairs well with garlic bread or rolls for extra comfort.
Storage: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until warmed through.
Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen before baking. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake from frozen at 375°F for 50-60 minutes, or until bubbly and the tater tots are golden.
Variations:
Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a meatless version. You can also add some cooked beans for extra protein.
Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the casserole mixture for a spicy kick.
Different Toppings: Swap the tater tots for frozen hash browns or even mashed potatoes for a twist on the traditional dish. You could also add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top before baking for an extra cheesy finish.
FAQs:
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes! You can substitute the chicken with ground beef, turkey, or even cooked sausage for a different flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you use.
Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce instead of store-bought? Absolutely! If you prefer homemade, you can easily substitute your favorite Alfredo sauce recipe for the store-bought variety. Just ensure it’s creamy enough to mix well with the soup and cream.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots? While fresh potatoes could work, they might not get as crispy as the frozen tater tots. If you choose to use fresh potatoes, try slicing them thinly and pre-baking them to ensure they get crispy on top.
Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese, coconut milk instead of heavy cream, and a dairy-free Alfredo sauce. You’ll still get a creamy and delicious casserole without the dairy.
