Are you ready to elevate your dinner game? My Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders are a crispy, flavorful treat you won’t want to miss! This easy recipe combines tender chicken with everything bagel seasoning for an irresistible crunch. I’ll guide you through simple steps and share tips to ensure perfect results every time. Let’s dive into making these delicious chicken tenders that are sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenderloins
– 1 cup buttermilk (or dairy-free alternative)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Seasoning and Coating
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Additional Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Cooking spray
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these chicken tenders fun and tasty. Chicken tenderloins are the star, giving you juicy bites. The buttermilk helps the chicken stay moist and adds flavor. If you’re dairy-free, a plant-based milk works too.
The flour adds a nice base for the spices. Garlic powder and onion powder give depth. Everything bagel seasoning adds that classic flavor we all love. Panko breadcrumbs create a crispy texture that air frying enhances.
You will also need eggs to help the coating stick. Don’t forget salt and black pepper for seasoning. Lastly, cooking spray helps achieve a golden finish without extra oil. With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to create a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk. This step adds moisture and makes the chicken tender. You want to soak them for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let them sit for up to 4 hours. The longer they soak, the better they taste.
Setting Up the Breading Station
Next, set up your breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix 1 cup of flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. In the second bowl, beat 2 large eggs. In the third bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning. This mix gives your chicken a tasty crunch.
Breading the Chicken Tenders
Now, it’s time to coat the chicken. Remove the tenderloins from the buttermilk. Shake off the extra but do not rinse them. First, dredge each tenderloin in the flour mix. Make sure they are well-coated. Then, dip them into the egg wash. Finally, press each one into the panko mixture to coat evenly. This three-step coating helps create a crispy outer layer.
Cooking the Chicken Tenders
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer. Don’t overcrowd them; give them space to cook evenly. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Crispy Chicken Tenders
To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. Panko makes the chicken tenders light and crispy. Regular breadcrumbs won’t give the same texture.
Spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray before cooking. This helps them brown nicely and keeps them from being dry. Use just enough to coat the tops. Too much spray can make them soggy.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to kick up the flavor? Try adding some spices. Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice kick. You can also mix in some dried herbs like thyme or oregano.
For dipping sauces, ranch or honey mustard works great. Sweet chili sauce adds a fun twist too. Pairing the tenders with a tasty sauce makes each bite better.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A big mistake is overcrowding the air fryer basket. Give the chicken tenders space. This allows hot air to circulate and cook them evenly.
Another mistake is not marinating long enough. Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This makes the chicken tender and juicy. If you have time, marinate for up to 4 hours for even better results.
Variations
Different Coating Options
You can change the coating for your chicken tenders. If you want to switch things up, try using crushed cornflakes instead of panko breadcrumbs. Cornflakes add a fun crunch. You can also use a gluten-free breadcrumb if needed.
For the seasoning blend, feel free to get creative! Try adding some smoked paprika for a smoky taste. You can also mix in some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for extra flavor. The goal is to make these tenders your own.
Chicken Alternatives
You don’t have to stick to chicken tenderloins. Chicken breasts or thighs work great too. Just cut them into strips and keep the cooking time the same.
If you want a vegetarian option, tofu or eggplant are tasty choices. Slice the eggplant into strips or cubes. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu and press it to remove extra moisture. These options will give you a nice, crispy texture too.
Serving Suggestions
Dips can make your meal even better. Try serving your chicken tenders with ranch dressing or honey mustard. You could also make a simple yogurt dip with herbs.
For sides, think about serving with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. You can also include some sliced veggies for a colorful plate. These ideas make your meal balanced and fun!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken tenders fresh, place them in a shallow container. Use a container with a tight lid to seal in moisture. Line the bottom with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. Store the chicken in the fridge. Enjoy the leftovers within three days for best taste.
Reheating Process
For the best results, use your air fryer to heat the chicken tenders. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook the tenders for about 5 to 7 minutes. This keeps them crispy and warm. If you don’t have an air fryer, use a microwave. Microwave in short bursts to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze cooked chicken tenders for later. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for best results.
FAQs
What is everything bagel seasoning?
Everything bagel seasoning is a mix of flavors. It usually includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. This blend gives a tasty crunch and a savory bite to dishes. You can use it on many foods, not just bagels. It adds a fun twist to your chicken tenders!
How do I know when chicken is cooked through?
To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tender. Do not touch the bone, as it can give a false reading.
Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use different cuts of chicken. Chicken breasts and thighs work well. If you use breasts, cut them into strips for even cooking. Thighs will add more flavor and stay juicy. Just adjust the cooking time if the pieces are thicker.
How to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make these chicken tenders gluten-free, swap the flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. You can use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Look for gluten-free panko at the store. This way, you can enjoy the same crispy texture without gluten.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
You can bake the chicken tenders if you prefer. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Enjoy the crunchy goodness!
This blog post covered the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for making chicken tenders. You learned about marinating and the importance of using panko for crunch. We also explored various variations, toppings, and storage tips to enjoy your tenders later.
In conclusion, using these methods, you can create tasty chicken tenders perfect for any meal. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and techniques. With practice, you’ll master this dish and impress anyone at the table.
