# Components:
→ Protein
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
03 - 1 small onion, diced
→ Sauce
04 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
05 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
06 - 1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
07 - ½ cup milk (any type)
08 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
09 - ½ teaspoon dried thyme
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Topping
11 - 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
→ Optional
12 - ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
# Method:
01 - Set the oven temperature to 400°F.
02 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add diced onion and sauté until softened, approximately 3 minutes.
03 - Incorporate flour into the cooked onions and butter, stirring continuously for 1 minute.
04 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring to prevent lumps, and cook until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
05 - Season the sauce with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix in frozen mixed vegetables and cooked chicken, simmering for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.
06 - Transfer the filling to a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
07 - Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer atop the filling.
08 - Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the tater tots are golden and crispy. Optionally, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the tots during the last 5 minutes.
09 - Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving.
