Doritos Are The Secret Ingredient to This Unforgettable New Year’s Eve Party Snack

I’m calling it: 2026 is the year that we start using Flamin’ Hot Doritos in our cooking a lot more. There’s far, far more to these piquant chips than just being an accompaniment to dip, and although they’ve been used as a coating or topping for dishes for a minute, somewhere down the line, that all started to feel a bit kitschy and old-school. Well, sorry, but it’s time to bring them back. When their power is wielded correctly, Flamin’ Hot Doritos give dishes a crunchy texture and a spicy, salty note that both seasons and satisfies.

Their sucker-punch flavor is especially useful for heat lovers who want a bit of extra pop in slightly milder foods – and when they’re used as a coating on chicken tenders, they create the most exciting New Year’s Eve party snack around. It won’t just be fireworks outside, guys: This dish will create a bang in the comfort of your kitchen. 

How to Make Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

Making Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders is so simple that even your kids could probably do it (although please, for the love of all things holy, make them wash their hands afterward – unless you want a crying child with an eye full of cheesy spice). All you have to do is replace your regular breadcrumbs with crushed-up chips, which you can break down by placing them in a Ziploc bag and bashing them with a rolling pin. Hey, it’s a great way to get all of that stress out before your guests arrive. 

You can then add a little extra seasoning to your Doritos to give them your own personal flair. A dash or two of smoked paprika can add some dusky warmth, while a sprinkle of dried oregano can lend a useful herbal note. Dip your cutlets or tenders into some flour, then egg, then the Doritos, and deep-fry or air-fry until they’re cooked and crispy. Pile them onto a platter, and watch your guests flock to the table.

The Best Sauces to Serve With Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders

It’s best to serve Doritos Crusted Chicken Tenders with a creamy dip, like ranch dip or a simple garlic mayo. Blue cheese dip will also work well here, with the sourness and funk of the cheese working wonderfully against the hot chip coating. You can even use some Doritos crumbs as a topper for your dip, to give them some much-needed visual flair. Remember that Flamin’ Hot Doritos are pretty spicy, and although you may be able to munch them down like there’s no tomorrow, some of your guests might need some relief – and the dip will provide that in spades, so avoid pairing it with hot sauce (unless you want to challenge everyone, that is). 

Oh, and if you have any leftover Flamin’ Hot Doritos, then try using them as a topping for your next mac and cheese, or crunching them up and sprinkling them over a frozen pizza.

We know those both sound like something a college student would dream up at 3 a.m., but trust us, there’s more to these chips than you think.