If you’re searching for a fun, flavor-packed twist on classic chicken tenders, these Doritos Chicken Tenders are about to become your new obsession! Each bite is juicy chicken hugged in a crispy, boldly seasoned Doritos crust—impossible to resist and absolutely perfect for game day, family dinners, or just a playful weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra-Crunchy Texture: Doritos create a crust that’s outrageously crispy and super satisfying with each bite.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The cheesy, tangy punch of Doritos brings a whole new level of excitement to classic chicken tenders.
- Quick and Easy: You need just four main ingredients and 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for busy nights!
- Fun for All Ages: Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, these Doritos Chicken Tenders are always the first to disappear.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about making Doritos Chicken Tenders is how surprisingly simple the ingredient list is. Each element serves a delicious purpose—bringing juicy chicken, a flavorful crunch, and golden color to the final dish!
- Chicken Breasts or Chicken Tenders (about 1 lb): Choose boneless, skinless chicken for easy cutting and perfect, tender strips.
- Doritos (1 x 235g bag): Any flavor works, but the classic Nacho Cheese offers that bold, unmistakable color and crunch; feel free to get creative!
- Egg (1): Acts as a glue, helping the Doritos stick beautifully to the chicken.
- Milk (¼ cup): Whisked with the egg, it gives extra moisture and helps the coating cling.
Variations
You can easily tailor Doritos Chicken Tenders to suit your family’s cravings or whatever you have on hand! Don’t be afraid to mix things up and make them your own—this recipe is as flexible as it is fun.
- Try Different Doritos Flavors: Make it spicy with Flamin’ Hot Doritos, or choose Cool Ranch for a zesty twist.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Pick a gluten-free chip variety and ensure all other ingredients meet your dietary needs.
- Swap the Chicken: Use the same breading technique with turkey cutlets, fish fillets, or even tofu for a meatless option.
- Add Extra Seasoning: Sprinkle in a little smoked paprika, garlic powder, or ranch seasoning to the crumb mixture for a personalized kick.
How to Make Doritos Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prep Your Equipment
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and place an oven-safe rack on top. This rack allows the heat to circulate, helping your Doritos Chicken Tenders get crisp on all sides without needing to flip them.
Step 2: Set Up the Coating Station
In a shallow dish, whisk the egg and milk until well combined—this is your glue! Then, blitz the Doritos in a food processor or crush them in a zip-top bag until they resemble chunky breadcrumbs. Pour these beautiful cheesy crumbs into a separate shallow dish.
Step 3: Prep and Coat the Chicken
If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1-inch thick to mimic classic tenders (or use chicken tenders straight from the package). Dip each piece into the egg-milk mixture first, making sure it’s fully coated, then press firmly into the Doritos crumbs so every bit is blanketed in flavor.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange all your coated chicken tenders on the prepared rack, spacing them out so the air can circulate. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F—no peeking needed, the Doritos will keep everything juicy and crisp!
Pro Tips for Making Doritos Chicken Tenders
- Big, Bold Coating: For the crunchiest finish, don’t over-process your Doritos—leave a few larger crumbs in the mix!
- Let Them Rest: After coating, let your prepared tenders sit for 5 minutes before baking—this helps the crumb “set” for maximum crispiness.
- Use a Wire Rack: Baking on a rack promotes all-over browning and keeps the crumb from getting soggy underneath.
- Flavor Customization: Mix and match Doritos flavors in the food processor for a two-toned, next-level flavor explosion!
How to Serve Doritos Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
To really make your Doritos Chicken Tenders pop, try sprinkling a handful of fresh chopped parsley or green onions over the top just before serving—the color contrast is gorgeous, and a squeeze of fresh lime can balance the savory richness in each bite.
Side Dishes
These tenders shine next to tangy coleslaw, crispy fries, or a cool macaroni salad. They also love to mingle with a pile of veggie sticks or a fresh leafy green salad for an easy, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Doritos Chicken Tenders into sliders by tucking them into mini buns with lettuce and a drizzle of ranch, or slice them up to top a loaded salad or wrap. For parties, arrange them on a platter with colorful dipping sauces for an instant crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Doritos Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days. Lining the container with a paper towel helps absorb any extra moisture and keeps that signature crunch alive.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay crisp and delicious for up to 2 months—perfect for those evenings you want dinner ready with zero fuss!
Reheating
For best results, reheat Doritos Chicken Tenders in a 375°F oven (or air fryer) for 5–7 minutes until heated through and crispy again—avoid the microwave, which can make them a bit soggy.
FAQs
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Can I use different Doritos flavors for these chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Doritos Chicken Tenders work with any flavor—try Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or even Flamin’ Hot for a fiery version. Mix and match to find your family’s favorite combo!
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Do I need to use a food processor to crush the Doritos?
If you don’t have a food processor, simply place the chips in a sturdy zip-top bag and crush them with a rolling pin. You want them coarser than powder for best crunch.
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Can I make Doritos Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and bread the chicken tenders, then lay them on a sheet pan, cover, and refrigerate for up to 8 hours before baking. This makes dinnertime absolutely effortless.
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How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer—once the thickest part of the tender reads 165°F (74°C), they’re good to go! The coating will be crisp and the chicken inside gorgeously juicy.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard not to smile with a plate of Doritos Chicken Tenders in front of you—these are guaranteed to bring pure joy to the table. Grab a bag of your favorite chips and some chicken, and let yourself have a little fun in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try this irresistible, crispy favorite—let me know how you make them your own!
Print
Doritos Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Doritos chicken tenders are a crunchy and flavorful twist on traditional chicken strips. The combination of crispy Doritos coating and tender chicken makes for a fun and delicious meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Egg Mixture:
- 1 Egg
- 1/4 cup Milk
Doritos Coating:
- 1–235 g Bag Doritos
Chicken:
- 1 lb Chicken Breasts or Chicken Tenders
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat oven to 400F.
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with tinfoil and place an oven-safe rack overtop. Set aside.
- Prepare coating: Whisk together the egg and milk in a shallow dish. Place Doritos in a food processor and blitz until crumbs form. Empty into a dish.
- Prepare chicken: Cut chicken into strips. Dredge in egg mixture, then coat in Dorito crumbs.
- Bake: Place coated chicken on prepared sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes until cooked through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
