# Components:
→ Protein
01 - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 1/2 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 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
07 - 1/2 cup milk (any type)
08 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
10 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
→ Topping
11 - 1 (28-ounce) bag frozen tater tots
→ Optional
12 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
# Method:
01 - Set oven temperature to 400°F and allow it to fully heat.
02 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat; add diced onion and cook for 3 minutes until softened.
03 - Add flour to the skillet and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, cooking for 3-4 minutes until thickened and smooth.
05 - Season sauce with garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper; stir in mixed vegetables and cooked chicken, simmering for 2-3 minutes.
06 - Transfer filling evenly into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
07 - Layer frozen tater tots in a single, uniform layer over the filling.
08 - Bake for 30-35 minutes until tater tots are golden and crispy; optionally sprinkle shredded cheddar in the last 5 minutes.
09 - Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
