# 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
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the oven to 400°F.
02 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
03 - Stir in flour and cook constantly for 1 minute.
04 - Gradually whisk in chicken broth and milk, stirring to eliminate lumps. Cook until thickened, 3 to 4 minutes.
05 - Incorporate garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in mixed vegetables and chicken, simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through.
06 - Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
07 - Arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the filling.
08 - Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until tater tots are golden and crisp. Optional: sprinkle cheddar cheese atop tots during the last 5 minutes.
09 - Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes prior to serving.
