Crispy Chicken Tenders With Chipotle Ranch and a Fun Crunchy Twist

Dorito Chicken Tenders are one of those fun, easy recipes that bring a little something extra to the table.

Instead of just breadcrumbs, crushed Doritos are also used as the crispy coating, adding bold, cheesy flavor and the kind of crunch that makes every bite satisfying. It’s a simple twist that turns basic chicken tenders into a crave-worthy snack or meal. I like using nacho cheese or cool ranch flavors depending on what I have on hand—they both work great.

These tenders are oven-baked or air-fried, so they’re not too heavy, and they pair well with chipotle ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauces. Whether you’re feeding a group or just want a playful spin on a classic, these chicken tenders are a quick win that always disappears fast.

Can’t make it now? Save it to Pinterest for later

Equipment You Will Need

• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Lemon squeezer
• Baking tray
• Parchment paper
• Tongs

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Buy on Amazon

Dorito Chicken Tenders

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

These Dorito Chicken Tenders are coated in crushed chips for a bold, crunchy crust that’s full of cheesy flavor. They’re easy to make and perfect for a fun dinner, game day snack, or party appetizer.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 2–3 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dorito Chicken Tenders:

17.6 oz or boneless chicken breast, cut into strips

1 1/2 cups crushed Doritos, nacho cheese flavor or your favorite

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crispiness)

2 large eggs

1/4 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking oil or spray

For the Chipotle Ranch Dressing:

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for spice level)

1 teaspoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

For the Chicken Tenders:

1. Prepare the coating: Crush the Doritos into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Mix with breadcrumbs if using.
2. Prepare the egg wash: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with milk.
3. Season the chicken: In another bowl, mix garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning into the chicken strips.
4. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat it evenly with the crushed Doritos mixture.
5. Bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Lightly grease it with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken strips on the tray and bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like the Chipotle Ranch Dressing below!

For the Chipotle Ranch Dressing:

1. Blend the base: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice until smooth.
2. Add flavor: Stir in chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Blend for smoothness (optional): For a smoother dressing, blend the mixture in a food processor or with an immersion blender.
4. Adjust consistency: If the dressing is too thick, add a little water until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Chill and serve: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

• Author: Little Party Pixie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooling Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizers

Step-By-Step Process

Dorito Chicken Tenders are perfect for game nights, after-school snacks, or casual get-togethers with friends. They’re easy to make in batches and full of flavor that both kids and adults enjoy.

If you’re into simple, crowd-pleasing recipes, take a look at more party-friendly ideas on the blog. There’s no shortage of tasty options to make.

If you like fun, snackable recipes, try the Crispy Cauliflower Bites and Asian Sticky Chicken Wings—both are easy to make and full of bold flavor. Also check out this savory collection of appetizer recipes perfect for any occasion!

© Little Party Pixie 2025