Doritos Chicken Tenders

Doritos Chicken Tenders

What if you could transform your favorite snack into a delicious, crunchy meal? Introducing Doritos Chicken Tenders—an exciting fusion of flavors that promises to elevate your dinner experience. This recipe not only tantalizes taste buds but also offers a delightful twist on traditional chicken tenders. With their irresistible crunch and vibrant flavor, these tenders make for a perfect family meal or game-day snack. Are you ready to dive into the savory world of Doritos Chicken Tenders?

Ingredients List

To create these mouthwatering Doritos Chicken Tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of chicken tenders: Tenderloins work best; feel free to substitute with boneless chicken breasts.
• 1 cup of crushed Doritos: Any flavor you love, but classic Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch adds a unique zing.
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour: For dredging; use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• 2 large eggs: Beaten; alternatives include egg substitutes or flaxseed meal for a vegan option.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: Enhances flavor; consider smoked paprika for a different twist.
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder: Adds depth; you may also use shallot powder.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning; switch to garlic salt for a flavor boost.
• Cooking spray or oil: Olive oil works wonders for baking.

Timing

This simple recipe requires:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 35 minutes

This is about 30% faster than many traditional chicken tender recipes!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your Doritos Chicken Tenders will bake evenly, creating that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 2: Prepare Your Breading Station

In three separate bowls, set up your breading station:

1. First Bowl: Combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Second Bowl: Beat the eggs until well combined.
3. Third Bowl: Pour in the crushed Doritos, giving them a light toss to distribute the seasoning.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken Tenders

Coat each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs before rolling in the crushed Doritos until fully coated. This step is crucial for achieving that delightful crunch!

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For a healthier option, lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensures they’re safe to eat.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approx. 5 tenders), the Doritos Chicken Tenders include:

• Calories: 370
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Total Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: <1g

This dish provides a balance of protein and carbs, making it a hearty option for an active lifestyle.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To enhance the nutrition of your Doritos Chicken Tenders, consider these modifications:

• Swap Out: Use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of crushed Doritos to reduce calories and increase fiber.
• Baking Option: Experiment with an air fryer for an even healthier cooking technique, providing a similar crunch with less oil.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped broccoli or spinach into the egg wash for added nutrients without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Doritos Chicken Tenders with:

• Dipping Sauces: Try ranch dressing, honey mustard, or spicy sriracha mayo for an extra flavor kick.
• Side Dishes: Pair them with a fresh garden salad for a nutritious balance or sweet potato fries for a delightful contrast.
• Wrap It Up: For a fun twist, serve them in a tortilla wrap with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Baking Sheet: This can lead to uneven cooking; give your tenders space to breathe!
2. Skipping the Coating Steps: Each layer is essential for the perfect crunch—don’t rush!
3. Under-cooking the Chicken: Always ensure your chicken reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To maintain the freshness of your Doritos Chicken Tenders, follow these tips:

• Refrigerating Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To keep them longer, freeze after cooking. They can last up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
• Prep-ahead: You can prepare the chicken and coat it in advance, storing it in the refrigerator up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

In the realm of quick and satisfying meals, Doritos Chicken Tenders reign supreme. With a mix of flavors and an enjoyable crunch, they’re a guaranteed hit for any gathering. We hope you’ll give this recipe a try and share your experience or variations with us. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use other chips instead of Doritos?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other flavored chips, like Cheetos or kettle-cooked chips, for different flavors.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed corn chips, and ensure your chicken broth and other additional ingredients are gluten-free.

What dipping sauces pair well?

Ranch, BBQ sauce, and honey mustard are fantastic choices. Go adventurous and mix a spicy sauce with yogurt for a creamy dip!

Can I air fry these chicken tenders?

Yes! Air frying is a great alternative; cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to achieve that magical crunch.

Now, it’s your turn to make the kitchen sizzle with Doritos Chicken Tenders!

Doritos Chicken Tenders

An exciting fusion of flavors that transforms your favorite snack into delicious, crunchy chicken tenders, perfect for family meals or game-day snacks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 370 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders Tenderloins work best; feel free to substitute with boneless chicken breasts.
• 1 cup crushed Doritos Any flavor; classic Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch adds a unique zing.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour For dredging; use almond flour for a gluten-free option.
• 2 large eggs Beaten; alternatives include egg substitutes or flaxseed meal for a vegan option.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances flavor; consider smoked paprika for a different twist.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds depth; shallot powder can also be used.
• Salt and pepper to taste Switch to garlic salt for a flavor boost.
• Cooking spray or oil Olive oil works wonders for baking.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking.
• Set up your breading station with three separate bowls: combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the first bowl; beat the eggs in the second bowl; pour crushed Doritos into the third bowl.
• Coat each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the crushed Doritos until fully coated.
• Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking oil for a healthier option.

Cooking

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden and cooked through, achieving an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Notes

To enhance nutrition, consider using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of crushed Doritos, experiment with an air fryer, or incorporate finely chopped vegetables into the egg wash. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and always check for the safe minimum internal temperature.

Keyword Chicken Tenders, Doritos Chicken Tenders, Family Meal, Game Day Food, Snack Recipe

Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.

📩 admin@tastysunrise.com • Pinterest