Crispy, crunchy, and packed with bold flavor, this Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken with Chipotle Sauce is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners. Imagine juicy, tender chicken coated in a golden, crunchy crust made from your favorite tortilla chips—every bite is like a fiesta in your mouth! But wait, it gets better. We’re pairing it with a smoky, creamy chipotle sauce that adds just the right amount of heat and tang. Whether you’re making this for a casual family meal or serving it up at a gathering, trust me—this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
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Why You’ll Love Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken with Chipotle Sauce
Ultra Crispy & Crunchy: The tortilla chip coating gives the chicken a next-level crunch.
Packed with Flavor: The smoky chipotle sauce adds a spicy, creamy kick.
Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a breeze.
Kid & Family-Friendly: A fun, crispy twist on classic chicken tenders.
Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice in the sauce to your liking.
Ingredients in Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken with Chipotle Sauce
Chicken Breasts: Juicy, lean, and perfect for holding that crispy coating.
Tortilla Chips: Crushed to create a crunchy, flavorful crust.
Eggs: Helps the chip coating stick to the chicken.
Flour: Creates a base layer for the chips to adhere better.
Garlic Powder & Paprika: Add extra depth to the breading.
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: Smoky, spicy, and the star of the sauce.
Sour Cream & Mayonnaise: Make the chipotle sauce rich and creamy.
Lime Juice: Adds a fresh, zesty balance to the sauce.
Honey: A touch of sweetness to round out the smoky heat.
Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken to golden perfection.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Prepare the Coating: Crush tortilla chips into fine crumbs. Set up a breading station with separate bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and crushed chips.
Coat the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge in flour, dip in egg, then press into crushed tortilla chips until fully coated.
Cook to Perfection: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Cook chicken on medium heat until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through. Alternatively, bake at 400°F until cooked through.
Make the Chipotle Sauce: Blend chipotle peppers, sour cream, mayo, lime juice, and honey until smooth. Adjust spice level to taste.
Serve & Enjoy: Drizzle the chipotle sauce over the crispy chicken or serve it on the side for dipping.
How to Serve Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken with Chipotle Sauce
Taco-Style: Slice the chicken and serve in warm tortillas with toppings.
Over Salad: Add sliced chicken over a fresh salad for a Tex-Mex twist.
With Rice & Beans: A classic combo that makes it a complete meal.
As a Party Appetizer: Serve bite-sized pieces with chipotle sauce for dipping.
With Extra Lime & Cilantro: Brightens up the flavors beautifully.
Additional Tips
Use Stale Chips: Slightly stale tortilla chips work great for an even crunchier crust.
Air Fry Option: Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes for a healthier alternative.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the chicken and sauce ahead for quick assembly.
Adjust the Heat: Reduce the chipotle or add extra honey for a milder sauce.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to keep them crispy.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I bake this instead of frying?
A1: Yes! Bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q2: Can I use flavored tortilla chips?
A2: Absolutely! Try nacho cheese or chili-lime chips for extra flavor.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q4: Can I freeze the coated chicken?
A4: Yes! Freeze before cooking and bake straight from frozen when ready.
Q5: What can I use instead of chipotle peppers?
A5: Swap for smoked paprika and a dash of hot sauce for a similar smoky heat.
Q6: What’s the best way to reheat crispy chicken?
A6: Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to keep it crunchy.
Q7: Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
A7: Yes! Use dairy-free yogurt or mayo as a substitute.
Q8: How can I make this gluten-free?
A8: Use gluten-free flour and certified GF tortilla chips.
Q9: Can I add cheese to the coating?
A9: Definitely! Mix in grated Parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
Q10: What’s a good side dish for this?
A10: Try Mexican street corn, guacamole, or a fresh mango salsa.
Final Thoughts
This Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken with Chipotle Sauce is crispy, crunchy, and packed with bold, smoky flavors. It’s the perfect blend of texture and taste, making it a go-to meal for any night of the week. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or stuffing it into tacos, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite way to enjoy chicken!
Print
Tortilla Chip Crusted Chicken with Chipotle Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This crispy, golden Tortilla Chip-Crusted Chicken is packed with crunch and flavor! Coated in crushed tortilla chips and baked or air-fried to perfection, it’s served with a smoky chipotle sauce for a delicious kick. A perfect weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or crowd-pleasing dish!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (halved lengthwise)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (any flavor)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- Cooking spray or oil (for baking/air frying)
For the Chipotle Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (minced)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it. (For air frying, preheat to 375°F.)
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Prepare the Coating:
- In one bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- In a third bowl, place crushed tortilla chips.
-
Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken piece in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into egg mixture, ensuring full coverage.
- Press into crushed tortilla chips, coating evenly.
-
Bake or Air Fry:
- Oven: Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
- Air Fryer: Place in a single layer in the basket and air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping once, until crispy.
-
Make the Chipotle Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
-
Serve Immediately:
- Drizzle or dip chicken in the chipotle sauce and serve with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro!
Notes
- Extra Flavor: Try using flavored tortilla chips (like lime or spicy nacho) for a twist!
- Spice Level: Adjust the chipotle pepper amount for more or less heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg