# 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
# Directions:
01 - Set oven temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
02 - In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, approximately 3 minutes.
03 - Add flour to the skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.
04 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, ensuring mixture is smooth. Continue cooking until thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
05 - Incorporate garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in mixed vegetables and shredded chicken. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through.
06 - Transfer filling evenly into a 9x13-inch baking dish.
07 - Place frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling.
08 - Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until tater tots are golden and crispy. Optionally, sprinkle cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
09 - Allow to rest for 5 minutes prior to serving.
