Nacho Cheese Dorito-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Step-by-Step Instructions

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   Elevate your chicken tenders with a crunchy, cheesy coating of Nacho Cheese Doritos. These tenders are perfectly seasoned and baked or fried for a family-favorite meal.

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   1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders, cut into 1-inch strips

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   1 (9.75 oz) bag Nacho Cheese Doritos, finely crushed

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   1/2 cup all-purpose flour

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   2 large eggs, beaten

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   1/4 cup milk

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   1 tsp garlic powder

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   1/2 tsp onion powder

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   1/2 tsp smoked paprika

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    1/4 tsp black pepper

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    1/4 tsp salt (or to taste, Doritos are salty)

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    Cooking spray or 2-3 cups vegetable oil for frying

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    1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for baking, or heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven for frying.

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    2. Prepare your dredging stations: In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk. In a third shallow dish, place the finely crushed Doritos.

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    3. Pat chicken strips dry with paper towels. Dip each chicken strip first into the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated, then shake off excess.

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    4. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off.

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    5. Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well to all sides.

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    6. For baking: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack sprayed with cooking spray. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).

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    7. For frying: Carefully place a few coated chicken tenders into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain excess oil.

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    8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or extra nacho cheese dip.