My hubby couldn't stop at one! He devoured 7 of these!

Baked Doritos Chicken Tenders with Cheddar and Jalapeño are a fun and flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders. Growing up in the Midwest, I remember how much we loved adding a little crunch and spice to our meals, and this recipe does just that. The zesty flavor of Doritos combined with the sharpness of cheddar and the heat of jalapeños makes these tenders a hit at any gathering. Whether you're hosting a game night or just want a quick weeknight dinner, these tenders are sure to please.

These Doritos Chicken Tenders pair perfectly with a side of creamy coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance out the spice. For a heartier meal, serve them with some roasted sweet potatoes or a bowl of cheesy mashed potatoes. And don't forget a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping!

Servings: 4

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs
1/4 cup milk
2 cups crushed Doritos (Nacho Cheese flavor)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped jalapeños (optional)
Cooking spray or olive oil

Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

In the first bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper.

In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.

In the third bowl, mix the crushed Doritos, garlic powder, smoked paprika, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapeños.

Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.

Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.

Press the chicken into the Doritos mixture, making sure each piece is well-coated.

Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.

Spray or drizzle the tenders with cooking spray or olive oil to help them crisp up.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.

Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure maximum crunch.

For a milder version, you can omit the jalapeños or replace them with chopped green bell peppers. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using Doritos Spicy Nacho flavor. For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the Doritos are gluten-free as well. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.