Name: Chicken Fajita Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cup milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 3 large eggs; 1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 2 large grilled chicken breasts ((about 1 1/2 lbs.), thinly sliced or cubed to 1/4 inch pieces); 1 cup diced red bell pepper ((about 1 large pepper)); 1 cup diced green bell pepper ((about 1 large pepper)); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup pepper jack cheese; 2 lbs. frozen tater tots; 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions; Cilantro and sour cream (for serving)

If you’re hunting for a breakfast dish that combines comfort and flavor, look no further than this Chicken Fajita Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. Imagine waking up to the aroma of grilled chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and melty cheese, all enveloped in crispy tater tots. This casserole is not only a feast for the senses but also an incredibly satisfying way to start your day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want to treat yourself, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your breakfast repertoire.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Chicken Fajita Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is the perfect blend of hearty ingredients and classic flavors. It’s versatile enough to be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner! The combination of grilled chicken, colorful peppers, and creamy cheeses makes it a complete meal in one dish. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or special occasions. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 large eggs
1 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon fresh cracked pepper
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 large grilled chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 lbs.), thinly sliced or cubed to 1/4 inch pieces
1 cup diced red bell pepper (about 1 large pepper)
1 cup diced green bell pepper (about 1 large pepper)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup pepper jack cheese
2 lbs. frozen tater tots
1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
Cilantro and sour cream for serving

Cook’s Kit

Large mixing bowl for combining ingredients
Whisk for beating the eggs and mixing liquids
9×13 inch baking dish for assembling the casserole
Spatula for even distribution of tater tots
Knife and cutting board for chopping veggies and chicken

Cooking Chicken Fajita Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole: The Process

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and come out perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, eggs, kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Whisk until well blended and set aside.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken and Peppers

In your baking dish, spread the grilled chicken pieces evenly across the bottom. Then, sprinkle the diced red and green bell peppers over the chicken, allowing their vibrant colors to shine through.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Next, layer the sharp cheddar cheese and pepper jack cheese over the chicken and peppers. This cheesy layer is going to create a deliciously gooey texture that binds everything together.

Step 5: Top with Tater Tots

Carefully arrange the frozen tater tots over the cheesy mixture. It’s okay if they overlap a little; they will crisp up beautifully during baking.

Step 6: Pour the Egg Mixture

Now, pour the creamy egg mixture evenly over the tater tots. This will soak into all the layers, creating a wonderfully rich flavor.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the egg mixture is set.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with finely chopped green onions, and serve with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

Seasonal Flavor Boosts

Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Swap out bell peppers for seasonal veggies like zucchini or spinach.
Use your favorite flavored cheese, like chipotle cheddar, to enhance the taste.
Incorporate avocado slices for a creamy texture and fresh taste.

Steer Clear of These

When making your Chicken Fajita Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole, avoid using stale or frozen ingredients past their prime. Fresh veggies and quality cheese will yield the best flavor. Additionally, steer clear of overly seasoned chicken, as it may overpower the dish.

How to Store & Reheat

If you have leftovers (which I doubt will happen!), store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place a portion in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

Final Bite

This Chicken Fajita Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that brings together all the flavors we love in a fun and accessible way. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a comforting dinner after a long day. With the ease of preparation and the joy it brings to the table, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your home. So gather your loved ones, whip up this delicious dish, and enjoy every bite!

Get ready to dig into a plate of cheesy, savory goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds! Try making it this weekend, and watch it transform your breakfast game into something extraordinary.