Craving a crispy treat that packs flavor? Look no further! My Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders combine the crunch of panko breadcrumbs with savory everything bagel seasoning. This easy recipe is perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Follow my simple steps to achieve golden, crispy tenders that your whole family will love. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
Additional Ingredients
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Cooking spray
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancements
– Salt and pepper
For this recipe, I use fresh chicken tenders. They stay juicy and tender when cooked. Panko breadcrumbs give the tenders a great crunch. I really like adding everything bagel seasoning because it brings a fun flavor. You can find this seasoning in most grocery stores.
I use all-purpose flour for the first coat. This helps the egg stick well to the chicken. Beating the eggs is key. It makes sure the chicken gets a nice layer. Don’t skip the cooking spray! It helps the chicken turn golden brown and crispy.
I always add salt and pepper to taste. It brings out the chicken’s flavor. You can also adjust the seasoning if you want more or less salt.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Process
First, you need to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 400°F (200°C). This step helps the chicken tenders cook evenly. While the air fryer heats up, prepare your flour mixture. In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. This adds flavor to your chicken.
Coating the Chicken
Now it’s time to coat the chicken tenders. Start by dipping each tender into the flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any extra flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs. This helps the panko stick well.
After that, place the chicken in the panko mixture. You should also add the everything bagel seasoning here. Press down lightly to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Repeat this process for all the tenders until they are all ready.
Air Frying Instructions
Once coated, place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not crowd them. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray. This will help them get extra crispy.
Now, cook them at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. When they are golden brown and cooked through, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Optimal Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch, using cooking spray is key. It helps the coating crisp up nicely. I spray a light coat on each chicken tender before cooking. This small step can make a big difference.
Flipping the chicken tenders halfway through cooking is also important. This ensures even browning. I use tongs to turn them gently. It helps keep that crispy coat intact.
Ensuring Proper Cooking
Always check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. A meat thermometer can help you with this.
Avoid overcrowding the air fryer. If you add too many, they won’t cook evenly. I like to cook in batches to keep everything crispy and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce work great.
For a complete meal, add some side dishes. Serve with a fresh salad or crispy fries. These will complement the flavors well. Enjoy!
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change up the seasonings for fun. Try using taco seasoning for a zesty twist. You can also use ranch seasoning for a creamy flavor. If you don’t have chicken tenders, chicken breasts work great too. Just cut them into strips. This gives you more options for your meal.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free meal, swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko. You can find this in most stores now. For flour, use almond flour or coconut flour. Both work well and keep the tenders crispy.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to amp up the flavor? Add shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, to the panko. It melts nicely and adds a rich taste. For a spicy kick, mix in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper. This gives your tenders a nice heat that pairs well with the everything bagel seasoning.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
After you enjoy your air fryer everything bagel chicken tenders, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Place the container in the fridge. They stay good for about three days. To prevent sogginess, avoid stacking tenders on top of each other. Use parchment paper between layers if needed.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat and keep the crispiest texture, use your air fryer again. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This method revives the crunch. You can also use an oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes.
Freezing Options
You can freeze the chicken tenders if you have extras. Let them cool down first. Then, wrap each tender in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs. However, panko gives a better crunch. Panko is lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs. This lightness helps the chicken tenders stay crisp. Regular breadcrumbs may create a denser coating. For the best results, I suggest sticking with panko.
What dipping sauces pair well with everything bagel chicken tenders?
Many sauces go well with these chicken tenders. Here are some tasty options:
– Creamy ranch dressing
– Honey mustard
– Spicy sriracha mayo
– Classic barbecue sauce
– Sweet chili sauce
These sauces will add extra flavor and fun to your meal.
How long do the chicken tenders last in the fridge?
These chicken tenders will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and safe to eat. For the best taste, enjoy them within the first few days. If you want to save them longer, consider freezing.
This blog post detailed making crispy chicken tenders in the air fryer. You learned about the key ingredients, like chicken and panko, and the simple process for preparing and cooking them. Remember, using cooking spray and flipping the tenders gives you the best crispiness. You can switch up ingredients for different flavors, and storage tips keep leftovers fresh. With these tips, you can create a tasty meal. Enjoy experimenting with your air fryer and serving these delicious tenders to family and friends!
