1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into tenders

1 cup flour (for a gluten-free option, use a suitable substitute)

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons milk

1 1/2 cups finely crushed Doritos (any flavor of your choice)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions:

 

Preheat & Prep: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or a light coating of cooking spray.

 

Breading Station Setup: Arrange 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.

 

Coating: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, tapping off the excess, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with the Doritos mixture. Ensure a complete cover for the best flavor and texture.

 

Bake: Place the tenders on the baking sheet, spaced apart. Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is crisp.

 

Rest & Serve: Allow the tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking to preserve their crunchiness before serving.

 

Variations & Tips:

 

Spice it up with a spicy Doritos variety and a dash of cayenne pepper in the mix.

For a lighter option, air fry at 380°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping once.

Experiment with different Doritos flavors to customize the taste.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce—ranch, honey mustard, or a zesty homemade avocado lime sauce are excellent choices.

Save time with pre-cut chicken tenders from the butcher or grocery store for convenience.

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