Baked Tortilla Chip-Crusted Chicken with Taco Seasoning

(Serves: 2–4)

Why We Love It

This tortilla-crusted chicken tenders is everything we love in a weeknight meal – crispy, flavorful, and fast. This is ready in under 30 minutes. The crushed tortilla chips create a crunchy, golden coating that’s packed with texture and seasoned just right thanks to taco spices. It’s oven-baked (not fried), so it’s a little lighter, but still totally satisfying. Serve it with fresh toppings like avocado, corn, and tomatoes, and you’ve got a dish that feels fun and festive. Perfect for taco night, game day, or a family dinner everyone will devour.

Ingredients

  • 1 to 1 ½ lb. thin-sliced boneless, skinless chicken breast cutlets or tenders
  • 4 oz. Luke’s Organic ancient grain tortilla chips, crushed
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade – see below)
  • 3 tbsp flour
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • Optional garnishes:
    • Diced tomatoes
    • Avocado slices
    • Grilled Corn
    • Fresh cilantro
    • Dallop of Greek yogurt or sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F.
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Prepare the chicken: Wash and pat dry. Set aside.
  4. Set up your coating stations:
    1. In the first shallow bowl: Add flour.
    2. In the second bowl: Add egg and beat lightly.
    3. In the third bowl: Combine crushed Luke’s Organic tortilla chips with taco seasoning.
  5. Coat the chicken:
    1. Dredge each piece in flour.
    2. Dip into the egg.
    3. Roll in the tortilla chip mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
    4. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until chicken is golden and cooked through (internal temp should be 165°F).
  7. Top with optional garnishes and serve warm.

Optional: Homemade Taco Seasoning

Make your own seasoning blend with pantry spices:

  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika (or smoked paprika)
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ¼ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (all optional)

Tips & Serving Ideas

  • Slice and serve over a salad or in tacos for a lighter option.
  • Kid-friendly and great for meal prep!
  • Try with salsa, sour cream, or a drizzle of chipotle mayo