There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy chicken tender, especially when that crunch is enhanced by the bold flavors of Doritos. Picture this: a cozy evening at home, the aroma of spices wafting through the kitchen, and the sound of sizzling tenders sending your stomach into a happy rumble. That’s exactly the experience you’ll get with these Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders!
I stumbled upon this vibrant recipe during a late-night snack craving, and it turned out to be a game changer for my weekly meal routine. With the fiery kick from Chilli Heatwave Doritos and a mix of spices that dance across your taste buds, these tenders are anything but ordinary. They promise to elevate your dinner table, serve as a delightful party snack, or simply satisfy that yearning for something more than fast food.
In just a sprinkle of time, you can create a dish that’s not only deliciously addictive but also impressively easy to whip up. Grab your apron, and let’s bring some excitement back into your kitchen with these crunchy delights!
Why will you love Dorito Chicken Tenders?
Irresistible crunch: The Doritos coating provides an unmatched crunch that will make your taste buds jump for joy.
Flavor explosion: With rich spices and the fiery taste of Chilli Heatwave Doritos, these tenders pack a punch.
Quick and easy: Ready in just 10-18 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights without compromising on flavor!
Versatile snacking: Great as a meal, a snack, or a party treat, they’ll impress friends and family alike.
Homemade goodness: Say goodbye to boring fast food; these tenders are a delicious homemade alternative that everyone will love!
Dorito Chicken Tenders Ingredients
For the Chicken
• 600g chicken tenders – or chicken breast, sliced into strips for a tender, juicy bite.
• 1/4 tsp Salt – to season the chicken directly, enhancing its natural flavor.
For the Coating
• 200g Chilli Heatwave Doritos – crushed to create a spicy, crunchy coating that elevates these chicken tenders.
• 50g Plain Flour – helps the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
• 2 Eggs – beaten, for binding the Doritos to the chicken tenders.
For the Seasoning
• 1 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika – adds a delicious, smoky flavor that complements the crunch.
• 1 tsp Salt – for seasoning the flour mixture and enhancing overall taste.
• 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper – adds a little heat to balance the rich flavors.
• 1/2 tsp Onion Powder – offers a hint of sweetness.
• 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder – brings a robust flavor to the mix.
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper – for a touch of warmth and depth.
For Cooking
• Oil Spray – as needed for a crispy finish, whether air frying or baking.
These ingredients come together to make mouth-watering Dorito Chicken Tenders that are sure to please!
How to Make Dorito Chicken Tenders
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Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) if you’re baking. This ensures your chicken tenders are cooked evenly and achieve that perfect crunch.
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Crush the Doritos. Place them in a large zip-lock bag and use a rolling pin to smash them until they resemble large Panko breadcrumbs. This crunchy coating is essential for that delightful texture!
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Season the chicken tenders with 1/4 tsp salt. This simple step enhances their natural flavor and sets the stage for the other delicious seasonings.
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Set up your coating station with three shallow dishes. Fill one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with the crushed Doritos for a fun and easy breading process.
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Coat each chicken tender. First, dredge it in the flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat it thoroughly with the crushed Doritos. Each layer adds flavor and crunch.
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Arrange the coated tenders on a wire rack above a tray if you’re baking, or place them directly in the air fryer if that’s your method of choice. Handle gently to keep the Doritos intact.
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Cook in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes at 200°C (400°F). Be sure to flip and spray them with oil halfway through for even crispiness. If needed, work in two batches for best results.
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Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes, spraying the tenders with oil to help them achieve that beautiful golden color.
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Check doneness. The tenders should be golden and crisp on the outside, and white or piping hot in the center. Adjust cooking time as necessary to avoid burning.
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Serve warm and enjoy your homemade, flavorful Dorito Chicken Tenders that are sure to be a hit at any table!
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Dorito Chicken Tenders?
Elevate your meal experience with complementary dishes that enhance the bold flavors of these irresistible tenders.
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Crispy French Fries: The classic side that pairs perfectly with tender, crunchy bites, adding a familiar comfort to your meal.
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Coleslaw Salad: A refreshing crunch to balance the bold flavors, its creamy tang creates a delightful contrast with the spicy chicken.
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Zesty Dipping Sauce: A homemade ranch or spicy mayo makes for the perfect partner, adding creaminess and extra flavor with every bite.
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Sweet Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, the sweet, juicy kernels bring a fresh burst of flavor that complements the spicy notes of the tenders.
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Garlic Bread: This buttery, toasty addition adds warmth and richness, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your plate.
For a beverage, serve with a Crisp Lemonade; its refreshing acidity cuts through the richness while providing a delightful palate cleanser.
Finally, top off the meal with Chocolate Chip Cookies for dessert, offering a sweet ending that everyone will love!
How to Store and Freeze Dorito Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store leftover Dorito Chicken Tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them tasty and prevents them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they regain their crunch. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.
Wrapping: When storing in the fridge or freezer, wrap tenders well to avoid freezer burn, ensuring you can savor that delightful crunch later!
Dorito Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these delicious tenders to your tastes and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute plain flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free coating that still packs a crunch.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra layer of heat that will ignite your taste buds.
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Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the crushed Doritos for a cheesy goodness that complements the spicy crunch perfectly.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour for an aromatic touch that adds depth to each bite.
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Baked Option: For a lighter version, skip the oil spray and bake them directly on parchment paper to achieve a crunchy texture without any added oil.
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Puffed Cereal Coating: Replace Doritos with crushed puffed corn or rice cereal for a lighter crunch that is equally fun and delicious.
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Yogurt Marinated: Marinate chicken in yogurt mixed with spices like cumin and coriander to tenderize the meat and add flavorful zest before breading.
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Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked tenders in a buffalo sauce before serving, offering a tangy twist that makes for an irresistible and zesty appetizer.
Let your taste take the lead and enjoy your kitchen adventures with these fun variations!
Make Ahead Options
These Dorito Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the chicken and coat it with the flour and spice mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in the fridge to keep it fresh and flavorful. For the Doritos coating, crush and store the Doritos in an airtight container, ensuring they stay crunchy until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply dredge the seasoned chicken in the beaten eggs and then coat with the Doritos before cooking. This prep method not only saves time on busy weeknights but also keeps the tenders just as delicious and crispy as if you made them fresh!
Helpful Tricks for Dorito Chicken Tenders
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Uniform Sizes: Cut chicken to similar sizes for even cooking, ensuring all tenders are perfectly crispy and juicy.
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Crush Carefully: When crushing Doritos, aim for a crumb texture similar to Panko, avoiding overly fine crumbs that may not stick as well.
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Oil Evenly: Spray the tenders thoroughly, especially when baking, to achieve a golden crispiness that mimics frying without excess oil.
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Don’t Rush Cooking: Always check the internal temperature; avoid burning by adjusting cooking time based on your oven or air fryer’s characteristics.
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Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to mix in other spices or use different Dorito flavors to customize your Dorito Chicken Tenders while keeping that addictive crunch!
Dorito Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Dorito Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken tenders, look for fresh, plump pieces without any discoloration. If you’re using chicken breast, opt for those that are firm and have a bright, pink hue. Avoid any that feel slimy or have dark spots all over, as these indicate they’re past their prime.
How can I store leftover Dorito Chicken Tenders?
I recommend storing any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and prevents them from drying out. Make sure they’re completely cooled before placing them in a container to avoid condensation and sogginess.
Can I freeze Dorito Chicken Tenders? If so, how?
For sure! To freeze your Dorito Chicken Tenders, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about an hour until they’re solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake or air fry from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time!
What should I do if the coating falls off while cooking?
Very common! If you notice the coating dislodging, ensure you’re pressing the Doritos into the chicken firmly during breading. If cooking in the air fryer, try adjusting the temperature slightly or handling them more gently when placing them in the basket. For next time, consider adding a bit more flour before the egg to help the Doritos adhere better.
Are Dorito Chicken Tenders suitable for kids? Any allergy considerations?
Absolutely! These tenders are often a hit with kids, thanks to their crispy flavor. However, keep in mind the potential for allergies. Always double-check the ingredients in Doritos for any allergens—like gluten or dairy—and consider using a gluten-free coating if necessary. You can also substitute simple cornflakes or crushed nuts for a different crunch that aligns with dietary needs!
How long can I reheat Dorito Chicken Tenders?
You can reheat leftovers in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring they become warm and crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, using an air fryer is also a fantastic option—just a few minutes will bring them back to life without losing that delightful crunch!
Dorito Chicken Tenders: Crispy Crunch You Can't Resist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Crush the Doritos in a large zip-lock bag with a rolling pin until they resemble large Panko breadcrumbs.
- Season the chicken tenders with 1/4 tsp salt.
- Set up your coating station with three shallow dishes: seasoned flour, beaten eggs, and crushed Doritos.
- Coat each chicken tender by dredging it in the flour, dipping it in the egg, and coating it with the crushed Doritos.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a wire rack above a tray or place them in the air fryer.
- Cook in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes at 200°C (400°F), flipping and spraying with oil halfway through.
- Bake in the oven for 15-18 minutes, spraying with oil for a golden color.
- Check doneness; they should be golden and crisp outside, white and hot inside.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Dorito Chicken Tenders!