Spicy Smokehouse Chicken Tots

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spicy Smokehouse Chicken Tots.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 425°F (220°C).

2. Step 2

   While the oven warms up, grab a rimmed baking sheet and give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

3. Step 3

   Now, spread those frozen tater tots out in a single layer on the baking sheet.

4. Step 4

   To add a little flair, drizzle about a tablespoon of olive oil over them and sprinkle on a tablespoon of your favorite barbeque seasoning.

5. Step 5

   Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the tater tots bake for around 25 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are heated through, just like the package suggests.

6. Step 6

   While the tater tots are baking, let’s focus on the chicken.

7. Step 7

   In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs with the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil, and don’t be shy with the barbeque seasoning—season generously! Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated and ready to shine.

8. Step 8

   Next, heat a non-stick skillet over high heat.

9. Step 9

   Once it’s hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs and sear them, turning occasionally, until they develop a lovely deep brown color.

10. Step 10

    Once they’re beautifully browned, reduce the heat to medium to keep them cooking gently.

11. Step 11

    While the chicken is sizzling away, melt some butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.

12. Step 12

    Stir in the hot pepper sauce and hot honey, adding a touch more barbeque seasoning to taste.

13. Step 13

    Let this mixture come to a gentle simmer, filling your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.

14. Step 14

    Once your chicken is perfectly browned, pour that delicious hot sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet.

15. Step 15

    Turn the heat back up to medium-high and cook, basting the chicken with the sauce constantly for about five minutes, until it’s fully cooked and beautifully glazed.

16. Step 16

    You’ll want to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

17. Step 17

    After that, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a moment before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

18. Step 18

    Now, let’s warm up some queso blanco! Pop it in the microwave on 50% power, stirring every 30 seconds until it’s hot and creamy—this should take about a minute.

19. Step 19

    It’s time to assemble your masterpiece! On a serving platter or the same baking sheet you used for the tater tots, arrange those crispy baked tater tots.

20. Step 20

    Top them generously with the sliced chicken and any remaining sauce from the skillet.

21. Step 21

    Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, and if you’re feeling adventurous, use a kitchen torch to melt the cheese for that extra touch of indulgence.

22. Step 22

    To finish it off, drizzle some additional hot sauce and warm queso blanco over the entire dish.

23. Step 23

    For a pop of color and flavor, garnish with pickled red onions and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

24. Step 24

    Now, gather your friends and family around, because this delicious creation is ready to be enjoyed!.