My husband loved this recipe! He ate 7 in a row!

Embark on a culinary adventure with Baked Doritos Chicken Tenders, a delightful fusion of succulent chicken and the bold crunch of everyone’s beloved snack. This innovative recipe elevates the traditional chicken tender, adding a twist that tantalizes taste buds and sparks lively conversation. Born from the imaginative kitchens of home cooks, it promises to captivate both the young and the young at heart.

These crispy delights can seamlessly complement various meal settings, pairing effortlessly with an array of sides. A refreshing green salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the tenders’ richness, while roasted vegetables or a simple garlic-infused pasta provide a satisfying accompaniment. For a timeless combination, creamy homemade mashed potatoes serve as a smooth counterpart to the tenders’ delightful crunch.

Recipe for Baked Doritos Chicken Tenders

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into tenders
• 1 cup flour (for a gluten-free alternative, use an appropriate substitute)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 1/2 cups finely crushed Doritos (choose your preferred flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions:

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, combine flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, whisk eggs and milk. In the third, mix crushed Doritos with garlic powder and smoked paprika.
3. Coating: Coat each chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it thoroughly with the Doritos mixture. Ensure even coverage for optimal flavor and texture.
4. Bake: Arrange the tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy.
5. Rest & Serve: Allow the tenders to rest briefly after baking to retain their crispiness before serving.

Variations & Tips:

• Add a kick by using a spicy Doritos flavor and incorporating a dash of cayenne pepper into the mixture.
• Opt for a lighter option by air frying at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping once.
• Explore different Doritos flavors to customize the taste according to your preferences.
• Pair the tenders with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or a zesty homemade avocado lime sauce are excellent choices.
• Save time by using pre-cut chicken tenders from the store for added convenience.

This recipe for Baked Doritos Chicken Tenders offers a playful yet delicious twist on a classic dinner, making it perfect for shaking up your meal routine with minimal effort and maximum flavor.