Name: Healthy Doritos Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: Chicken Breast Strips (1 pound) cut into tenders.; Doritos (1 to 2 cups crushed) choose a lighter or reduced-fat variety if available.; Plain Greek Yogurt or Egg Wash (half cup yogurt or 2 beaten eggs); Seasonings: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika.; Salt and Pepper (to taste).

If you are craving something crunchy, flavorful, and reminiscent of your favorite snack chips, these Healthy Doritos Chicken Tenders are the perfect answer. They combine the tangy, bold taste of Doritos with lean chicken breast, offering a lighter twist on a popular comfort meal. By baking or air frying, you reduce oil usage while still getting a crispy exterior that is guaranteed to please. This recipe is family friendly, easy to prep, and can fit into various meal plans without sacrificing the fun of a classic junk food flavor.

Quick Facts

Prep Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 to 20 minutes (depending on method)
Calories: About 250 per serving (2 to 3 tenders)
Servings: 4 portions

Approximate Nutrition (per serving):

Protein: 25g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 10g
Fiber: 2g

Note that numbers can vary depending on the type of Doritos and exact quantities used.

Step by Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven or Air Fryer
- For oven baking: set to 400°F.
- For air frying: set to 380°F.
Crush the Chips
Place Doritos in a sealed plastic bag and crush them until you have a coarse crumb. Pour the crushed pieces into a shallow bowl. For a finer texture, use a food processor, but leaving some chunkiness can add extra crunch.
Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. In a separate bowl, stir Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and any preferred seasonings such as garlic powder or paprika. Alternatively, whisk eggs with the same seasonings. Dip each chicken piece into the yogurt or egg mixture, shaking off any excess.
Roll in Doritos Crumbs
Press each chicken tender firmly into the crushed Doritos, turning to coat all sides. Ensure a good covering of crumbs to maximize flavor and crunch.
Arrange and Cook
- If using the oven: place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- If using an air fryer: arrange tenders in a single layer in the fryer basket. Air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Check for doneness by slicing into the thickest part of a tender.
Rest and Serve
Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps maintain a juicy interior while keeping the coating crisp.

Tips for Maximum Freshness and Storage

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F for a few minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Avoid microwaving for extended periods, as it can make the coating soggy.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Kick: Use a spicy variety of Doritos or add cayenne pepper to your egg wash.
Cheesy Boost: Sprinkle a small amount of grated cheese on the tenders right before cooking for added richness.
Herb Mix: Incorporate dried basil or oregano into the coating for an herbal aroma.

Pairing Suggestions

Healthy Doritos Chicken Tenders pair nicely with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a low carb slaw if you want a lighter meal. For dipping sauces, try Greek yogurt based ranch, a hot sauce, or a tangy barbecue dip to complement the crunchy coating.

Pin This Recipe for Later

Keep these Healthy Doritos Chicken Tenders at the top of your meal prep ideas. Pin or bookmark the recipe so you can easily return to it whenever you crave a crispy, flavorful chicken dish. This method promises a crowd pleasing result, perfect for both family dinners and casual get togethers. Enjoy!