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.
