Easy Dorito-Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe: A Bold, Flavor-Packed Snack for Every Occasion

If you’re looking for a fun, crispy, and incredibly delicious snack, look no further than these Dorito Chicken Tenders! The bold, cheesy flavor of nacho cheese Doritos wrapped around tender, juicy chicken makes for a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving something tasty, these Dorito-crusted tenders are sure to hit the spot.

Photo byInsanelyGoodRecipes

I remember the first time I tried this dish—I was searching for something new and exciting to make for a gathering with friends. I stumbled upon this recipe at Insanely Good Recipes, and it was an instant hit! The crunchy Dorito coating paired perfectly with the tender chicken, and it became a favorite in my household. Today, I’m thrilled to share this amazing recipe with you, inspired by the original, with my own personal twist.

Origins and Fun Facts:

While chicken tenders have been a staple in American households for decades, this recipe takes a creative spin by using Doritos as the crispy coating. The idea of using chips for a crust isn’t new, but Doritos’ bold flavor elevates these tenders to a whole new level. The contrast between the cheesy, crunchy exterior and the juicy chicken inside makes it an unforgettable snack or meal. If you’re a fan of Doritos, this recipe will definitely become a go-to in your kitchen!

Dorito Chicken Tenders Recipe:

Ready to dive into this delicious dish? Here’s how to make the best Dorito Chicken Tenders at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 large bag nacho cheese Doritos, finely crushed
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Spray the rack lightly with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the coating stations: In one shallow dish, place the crushed Doritos. In another, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Start by dipping each chicken tender into the flour mixture, followed by the egg mixture, and finally coat them with the crushed Doritos. Press the Doritos onto the chicken to make sure they stick.
4. Place the coated tenders on the wire rack, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through, and the coating is crispy and golden. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce, for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Tips:

• Crushing the Doritos: You can either crush the Doritos in a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and use a rolling pin. Make sure they’re finely crushed so they stick better to the chicken.
• Wire Rack: Using a wire rack ensures the chicken stays crispy on all sides by allowing the hot air to circulate. If you don’t have a wire rack, you can bake the tenders directly on the foil-lined sheet and flip them halfway through for even crispiness.

Variations and Pairings:

This recipe is highly versatile! Want a spicy kick? Try using spicy nacho Doritos or the Flamin’ Hot variety for a fiery twist. If you prefer a gluten-free version, swap out the flour for a gluten-free flour blend, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that everyone can enjoy.

These chicken tenders pair perfectly with classic sides like french fries, a green salad, or even coleslaw. For a healthier alternative, serve them with oven-baked sweet potato fries or roasted veggies.

Call to Action:

Did you love this Dorito Chicken Tenders recipe as much as I do? Try it out and let me know how it turned out in the comments below! If you have any favorite dipping sauces or creative twists, I’d love to hear about them. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and follow me for more delicious recipes like this one!