Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a fun and tasty way to enjoy chicken, look no further than these Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders! These crispy bites are a family favorite in my home, and it’s easy to see why. The crunch of the Doritos adds a burst of flavor that makes each tender irresistible. Plus, they’re so simple to whip up—perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends over.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly you can have a delicious meal on the table. In just half an hour, you can serve up golden-brown chicken tenders that everyone will adore. Whether you’re dipping them in BBQ sauce or ranch dressing, these tenders are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, these tenders are the perfect solution for those hectic evenings.
• Kid-Friendly: With their crunchy texture and bold flavors, even the pickiest eaters will be asking for more!
• Make Ahead: Prep them early in the day and pop them in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Dipping Options: Pair with your favorite sauces for a customizable snacking experience.
• So Delicious: The unique Doritos crust takes ordinary chicken to a whole new level.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for these Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders is a breeze. You probably already have most of them on hand! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2.5 lbs.)
• 1 255g bag of Cool Ranch Doritos
• 3/4 cup all purpose flour
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 3/4 cup milk

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, making it easy to switch things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations you might consider:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Change up the flavor: Try using Spicy Nacho Doritos for an extra kick!
• Add some spice: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper or paprika into the flour for added heat.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.

How to Make Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your tenders will cook evenly and become perfectly crispy as soon as they hit the heat.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with foil or lightly brush them with olive oil to prevent sticking. If you have a wire rack that fits in your baking sheet, it helps air circulate around the chicken, giving it an extra-crispy texture!

Step 3: Cut the Chicken

Slice your chicken breasts into strips about 3-4 inches long and 2-3 inches wide. This size helps them cook quickly and evenly. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; just aim for similar sizes so they bake uniformly!

Step 4: Crunch Up the Doritos

Open your bag of Cool Ranch Doritos and give it a gentle squeeze while holding the top closed. This will break them into smaller pieces that resemble crunched-up corn flakes—perfect for coating your chicken!

Step 5: Set Up Your Dipping Station

In separate bowls, pour in milk, flour, and beaten eggs. Arrange them in this order: milk first, then flour, followed by eggs, then your crushed Doritos at the end. Trust me; this setup makes dipping much easier (and less messy)!

Step 6: Coat Each Piece of Chicken

Take each piece of chicken one at a time and dip it first into the milk, then coat with flour, followed by eggs, and finally cover it generously with those crunchy Dorito pieces. Place each coated tender onto your baking sheet.

Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake your tenders in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Remember to turn them over halfway through cooking so both sides get nice and crispy! You want them cooked through without any pink inside.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once they’re golden brown and delicious-smelling, take your tenders out of the oven. Serve them hot with BBQ sauce or ranch dipping sauce on the side. For an extra touch of freshness, garnish with sliced green onions!

These Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders are sure to become a favorite in your household too! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

Making these Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders is all about getting that perfect crunch and flavor, so here are some pro tips to help you achieve just that!

• Crush the Doritos well: Ensuring the chips are finely crushed creates a more even coating, allowing for maximized flavor and crunch with every bite.
• Use a wire rack: If possible, place your chicken tenders on a wire rack over the baking sheet. This allows air to circulate all around the chicken, leading to an extra crispy texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spacing out your chicken tenders prevents steaming and ensures they bake evenly, giving you that desired golden-brown exterior.
• Experiment with flavors: While Cool Ranch Doritos are delicious, don’t hesitate to try other flavors! Nacho cheese or spicy variants can add a unique twist to the dish.
• Let them rest before serving: Allowing the tenders to sit for a few minutes after baking helps maintain their juiciness and lets any excess oil drip off.

How to Serve Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

These Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders make for an eye-catching dish that’s perfect for sharing with family or friends. Present them beautifully, and you’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Garnishes

• Sliced green onions: A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the rich taste of the tenders.
• Chopped parsley: A handful of freshly chopped parsley not only enhances visual appeal but also brings a refreshing herbal note to your plate.

Side Dishes

• Crispy French fries: Classic crispy fries are always a hit! Their salty crunch pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture and flavor, balancing out the richness of the chicken tenders.
• Fresh veggie sticks: Carrot and celery sticks served with hummus or ranch make for a crunchy and healthy side option that’s easy to prepare.
• Corn on the cob: Sweet corn on the cob is not only delicious but also adds a fun element to your meal. Grilled or boiled, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders! Whether it’s game night, family dinner, or just because, this recipe promises crispy goodness every time. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, whether it’s for lunches or quick dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Place leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain crispiness, you might want to keep them separate from any sauces.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken tenders on it.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions regarding Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders that might help you in your cooking journey!

Can I use other flavors of Doritos for the chicken tenders?

Absolutely! While this recipe features Cool Ranch Doritos, feel free to experiment with other flavors like nacho cheese or spicy sweet chili for a different twist.

How do I ensure my Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders stay crispy?

To keep your chicken tenders crispy, make sure they are baked on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows air circulation around all sides of the tenders while they bake.

Are these Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders suitable for meal prep?

Yes! These tenders are great for meal prepping and can be stored in the fridge or freezer. Just follow the storage guidelines provided above.

What can I serve with Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders?

These tasty tenders pair wonderfully with BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a fresh salad. They make a satisfying meal or appetizer!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders! They’re not only easy and quick but also bring fun flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as an everyday meal, they’re sure to be a hit. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!