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Dorito Chicken Tenders

Dorito Chicken Tenders

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Ingredients
  

For the Dorito Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breast cut into strips
  • 1½ cups crushed Doritos nacho cheese flavor is our go-to but feel free to get wild!
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs totally optional, but adds extra crispiness!
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or oil for baking

For the Chipotle Ranch Dressing:

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce finely chopped (depends how spicy you like it)
  • 1 tsp adobo sauce from the can
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • Crush the Doritos. Pop them in a food processor or smash them in a zip-top bag with a rolling pin. You want a fine crumb, think breading texture. Mix in the breadcrumbs if using.
  • In a bowl, beat the eggs and milk together. That’s your sticky layer!
  • In a separate bowl, mix your garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub it all over the chicken strips. They should be well-coated and ready to shine.
  • Dip each chicken strip into the egg wash, then press into the Dorito crumbs until fully coated. You want every inch of that chicken covered in cheesy goodness.
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spray it lightly. Lay the tenders out in a single layer, don’t crowd the pan. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for that golden, crispy coating.
  • Let them rest for 5 minutes. Then serve them up with that dreamy dip below.

Chipotle Ranch Dressing (Yes, it’s as good as it sounds)

  • Whisk together the mayo, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and lemon juice.
  • Stir in those finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, and the rest of the seasonings. Give it a taste, you can always add more spice if you’re feeling bold.
  • Want a restaurant-style smooth dip? Blend it up with a food processor or immersion blender.
  • Pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors come together and mellow out. So worth the wait!