Print

Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders feature juicy chicken coated in a crunchy, boldly seasoned Doritos crust and baked until crisp. They make an easy dinner, snack, or party food served with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins
  • 1 bag (9.25 ounces) Nacho Cheese Doritos, crushed
  • 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt, optional
  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing, optional for serving
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, optional for serving
  • 1/2 cup spicy mayonnaise, optional for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or place an oven-safe wire rack over the baking sheet and lightly coat it with cooking spray.
  2. Place the Doritos in a resealable bag and crush them into fairly small crumbs, leaving a few slightly larger pieces for extra crunch. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow dish.
  3. In a second shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and optional salt.
  4. In a third shallow dish, whisk the eggs and milk until well combined.
  5. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels.
  6. Coat each chicken tender lightly in the seasoned flour and shake off the excess.
  7. Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing the excess to drip off.
  8. Press the chicken firmly into the crushed Doritos, coating all sides generously.
  9. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack without allowing the pieces to touch.
  10. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a small amount of vegetable oil.
  11. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, carefully turning halfway through if needed, until the coating is crisp and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  12. Let the chicken rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving with ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or spicy mayonnaise if desired.

Notes

  • Nacho Cheese Doritos provide a bold cheesy coating, while Cool Ranch or spicy Doritos can be used for different flavors.
  • Doritos are already salty, so taste preferences should be considered before adding additional salt.
  • Press the crushed chips firmly onto the chicken to help the coating stay attached during baking.
  • For extra-cheesy tenders, mix finely grated Parmesan cheese into the crushed Doritos.
  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts can be sliced into evenly sized strips instead of using tenderloins.
  • For chicken bites, cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
  • Store cooked leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in an oven or air fryer for the crispiest coating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/doritos-crusted-chicken-tenders/