Crispy Chicken Tots
If you love crispy, bite-sized snacks that are packed with flavor, then these homemade chicken tots are about to become your new favorite recipe! These golden, crunchy bites are a delicious twist on classic tater tots, swapping out potatoes for juicy, seasoned chicken.
They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a fun dinner for kids. Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and freeze for those busy days when you need a quick, satisfying meal. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and watch them disappear in no time!
Questions I Often Get Asked About This Recipe
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the chicken tots and freeze them before frying or baking. Just cook them straight from frozen—no need to thaw.
Q: What dipping sauces go best with these?
A: Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo are all great options!
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even crisp.
Q: What’s the best way to get them extra crispy?
A: Panko breadcrumbs help give them the perfect crunch. If baking, spray them lightly with oil before putting them in the oven.
Q: Can I add veggies to the mix?
A: Yes! Finely grated zucchini, carrots, or even a bit of mashed sweet potato blend in nicely without overpowering the flavor.
What You Need to Make Chicken Tots
For the Chicken Tots:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil, for frying (or cooking spray if baking)
For Dipping (Optional):
- Ranch dressing
- Barbecue sauce
- Honey mustard
- Spicy mayo
Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Baking sheet (if baking)
- Deep fryer or frying pan (if frying)
- Slotted spoon (for frying)
How to Make Crispy Chicken Tots
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, and seasonings. Mix well until the mixture holds together. - Shape the Tots
Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small tot shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used. - Chill the Tots
Place the shaped tots on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking. - Cook the Chicken Tots
- For Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tots in batches for about 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- For Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tots on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken tots cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Tots
- Use Rotisserie Chicken – It’s already packed with flavor and shreds easily, making the recipe even easier.
- Chill Before Cooking – This helps the tots keep their shape and not fall apart while frying or baking.
- Add Extra Crunch – Coat the outside of the tots in extra panko breadcrumbs for even more crispiness.
- Spice It Up – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat!
Reader Reviews
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “My kids LOVED these! So crispy and delicious, and I loved that I could bake them instead of frying.” – Emily
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “I made these for a party, and they were gone in minutes. Such a fun twist on tater tots!” – Jason
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “The perfect snack! I dipped mine in spicy mayo, and they were incredible.” – Sarah
Printable Recipe
Crispy Chicken Tots
These crispy, bite-sized chicken tots are a fun and delicious twist on classic tater tots! Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or kid-friendly meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying (or cooking spray if baking)
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, green onions, egg, and seasonings. Mix well until the mixture holds together.
Shape the Tots
- Scoop out about a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into a small tot shape. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Chill the Tots
- Place the shaped tots on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
Cook the Chicken Tots
- For Frying: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tots in batches for about 3–4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- For Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the tots on a lined baking sheet, spray lightly with oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the chicken tots cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Check Out Some Of Our Other Recipes / Crafts
Blissful Blueberry Shortcake Cake
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If You Enjoyed This Recipe, Please Share!
These crispy chicken tots are a must-try! Share the recipe with your friends and family, and don’t forget to tag me if you make them.
