Chicken Tots Recipe

Chicken tots are a delightful twist on the classic potato tot. These crispy, bite-sized treats are packed with juicy chicken, seasoned to perfection, and make for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing finger foods for a party, or looking for a kid-friendly meal idea, chicken tots are sure to be a hit. They’re simple to prepare and can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect chicken tots at home.

A Brief History of Chicken Tots Recipe:

The concept of chicken tots is relatively modern, inspired by the popularity of tater tots and chicken nuggets. These two beloved foods combine crispy, golden textures with savory flavors, making them staples in comfort food culture. By merging the concept of shredded chicken with the shape and convenience of tots, home cooks and chefs have created a versatile dish that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

Chicken Tots Recipe

Pinklady

The concept of chicken tots is relatively modern, inspired by the popularity of tater tots and chicken nuggets. These two beloved foods combine crispy, golden textures with savory flavors, making them staples in comfort food culture.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet or frying pan
• Food processor (optional)
• Parchment paper (if baking)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs or spatula
• Wire rack (optional, for cooling)

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups of cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup of breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup of mayonnaise
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• ½ teaspoon of black pepper
• ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• Cooking spray or oil (for frying or baking)

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Instructions

 

• Prepare the Chicken

  If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, boil or bake chicken breasts until fully cooked, then shred them using two forks or a food processor.
• Mix the Ingredients

  In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, mayonnaise, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add parsley for extra flavor if desired.

  Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
• Shape the Tots

  Take a tablespoon-sized portion of the mixture and roll it into a small tot shape (oval or cylindrical). Repeat until all the mixture is used.
• Choose Your Cooking Method

  Baking:

  Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking oil.

  Arrange the tots on the baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching.

  Lightly spray the tots with oil for extra crispiness.

  Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

  Frying:

  Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).

  Carefully drop the tots into the hot oil in small batches.

  Fry for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.

  Use a slotted spoon to transfer the tots to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
• Serve and Enjoy

  Let the tots cool slightly before serving. Pair them with your favorite dips, such as ranch, ketchup, or honey mustard.

Video

Keyword Chicken Tots Recipe

Similar Recipes:

Classic Tater Tots: The original crispy potato snack.

Chicken Nuggets: Another kid-friendly favorite with a golden crust.

Buffalo Chicken Bites: Spicy, flavorful morsels for game-day snacks.

Zucchini Tots: A veggie-packed alternative to traditional tots.

Cheesy Broccoli Tots: A delicious way to sneak in some greens.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tots Recipe:

1. Can I make chicken tots ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the tots and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely. Just make sure to drain the chicken well and shred it finely.

3. Are chicken tots gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

4. Can I air-fry chicken tots?

Yes. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tots for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.

5. What’s the best dip for chicken tots?

Popular choices include ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or garlic aioli.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover tots in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

7. Can I add vegetables to the mixture?

Yes! Finely chopped vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition.

8. Are chicken tots healthy?

They can be a healthier snack option if baked or air-fried instead of deep-fried.

9. Can I make chicken tots spicy?

Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the mixture for a spicy kick.

10. What can I serve with chicken tots?

Serve them with a side of salad, coleslaw, or fries for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Chicken tots are a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s simple to make and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main dish, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast. With their crispy exterior and savory, tender interior, they’re sure to become a staple in your household. Try them out today and customize them with your favorite seasonings or dips!

YouTube Video credits:
Food Wishes