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Flamin’ Hot Cheetos-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Flamin’ Hot Cheetos-Crusted Chicken Tenders bring a fiery kick and a bold, crunchy shell that stays crisp after cooking. The mayo binder keeps the chicken juicy inside while amplifying the rich, tangy heat of the Cheetos and cayenne. Perfect for game day snacking, casual dinners, or serving alongside cooling dips to balance the spice.

  • Prep8 mins
  • Cook12 mins
  • Serves4
  • DifficultyEasy
Flamin’ Hot Cheetos-Crusted Chicken Tenders
  1. 1

    Put the Cheetos in a blender and pulse into fine crumbs. Pour the crumbs into a 1-gallon resealable plastic bag. Add the cayenne and salt. Seal the bag and shake to mix.

  2. 2

    Place the chicken tenders in a 1-quart resealable plastic bag. Add the mayonnaise. Seal the bag and massage the chicken in the mayonnaise until evenly coated.

  3. 3

    Move 2 chicken tenders from their bag to the bag with the Cheetos crumbs. Seal the bag and shake until evenly coated. Set the tenders on a plate. Repeat with the remaining tenders.

  4. 4

    Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer and cook for 6 minutes. Use a spatula to flip the tenders and cook until the centers are no longer pink and the juices run clear, about 6 minutes more. An instant-read thermometer inserted in the center should register at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).