Get ready for a delicious twist on chicken tenders! My Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and so easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and your air fryer, you’ll serve up a meal everyone will love. Whether you’re a busy parent or a foodie wanting to impress, this recipe has you covered. Let’s dive into all the tasty details!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenderloins
– 1 cup buttermilk
Chicken tenderloins are lean and cook quickly. They soak in buttermilk, which makes them juicy and tender. This marination step is key for flavor and texture.
Breading Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
The flour forms the base for the breading. Garlic and onion powder add a savory touch. Paprika gives a hint of warmth, while black pepper adds a bit of spice. Mixing these well ensures each tender gets a great flavor.
Coating Ingredients
– 1 1/2 cups fine panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup everything bagel seasoning
– Olive oil spray
Panko breadcrumbs are light and crisp. They create a crunchy texture when fried. The everything bagel seasoning adds complex flavors, making these tenders special. A light spray of olive oil helps achieve that golden brown finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. You can also marinate it for up to 2 hours in the fridge. Marinating helps the chicken stay juicy and adds flavor.
Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three bowls for breading. In the first bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. In the second bowl, pour in the leftover buttermilk. In the third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with everything bagel seasoning. This setup makes breading easy and organized.
Bread the Chicken
After marinating, pull out each chicken tender. Let any extra buttermilk drip off. First, coat the chicken in the flour mix, covering all sides. Then, dip it back into the buttermilk. Finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to help the crumbs stick well to the chicken.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This should take about 5 minutes. Preheating is key for getting a nice, crispy outside on the chicken.
Air Fry the Chicken
Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Cook the tenders for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
Serve
Once cooked, take the chicken tenders out and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or honey mustard. Enjoy them plain or with colorful veggies for a fun presentation!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Crispiness
To make sure your chicken tenders turn out crispy, use olive oil spray. This spray coats the chicken lightly. It helps the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely in the air fryer. Aim to spray the tops just before cooking. This step is key for that crunchy bite you want. Remember, too much oil can make them soggy, so use it wisely.
Marination Alternatives
If you want to try something different for marinating chicken, you have options. You can use yogurt instead of buttermilk. Yogurt adds a nice tang and helps tenderize the chicken. Another choice is to use pickle juice. It gives a unique flavor and keeps the chicken moist. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different liquids for fun flavors!
Bread Crumb Variations
Panko breadcrumbs are great, but you can use substitutes if needed. Regular breadcrumbs work well, but they might not be as crunchy. Crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers can add a fun twist. For a healthier option, try ground oats. Each substitute brings its own flavor and texture, so choose what you like best!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can add fun twists to your chicken tenders. Try different seasoning blends. For a spicy kick, mix in cayenne pepper. If you love herbs, add dried dill or thyme. You can also use taco seasoning for a zesty flavor. Experimenting keeps the dish exciting.
Protein Alternatives
You don’t have to use only chicken tenderloins. Chicken breasts work well too. Just cut them into strips for even cooking. If you want a change, use turkey tenderloins. They give a leaner option with similar taste. You can even try fish or tofu for a new experience.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free option, switch to gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well. You can find these in most stores. They will still give you that crunchy coating. Just check the pack to ensure they fit your diet. Enjoy your tasty meal without worry!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken tenders fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool completely first. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. The less air that gets in, the better they will stay.
Reheating Instructions
Reheating chicken tenders can be tricky. You want them hot and crispy, not soggy. The best way to reheat them is in the air fryer. Set it to 375°F and cook for about 5-7 minutes. This helps keep that crunchy texture. You can also use an oven. Just place them on a baking sheet and heat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
Freezing Options
If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. First, let the chicken tenders cool completely. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat them in the air fryer for the best results.
FAQs
How long do I need to marinate chicken tenders?
You should marinate chicken tenders for at least 30 minutes. This helps them soak up the buttermilk and become tender. For the best flavor, you can marinate up to 2 hours in the fridge. This extra time allows the chicken to absorb more flavor.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko is better. Panko gives a crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs can be fine and may not provide as much crunch. The taste will change slightly, but they will still be good.
What dipping sauces pair well with everything bagel chicken tenders?
Some great dipping sauces are:
– Ranch dressing
– Honey mustard
– BBQ sauce
– Ketchup
– Garlic aioli
These dips add a burst of flavor and enhance your meal. You can also get creative and mix your own sauces!
Can I cook these chicken tenders in a conventional oven?
Yes, you can bake these chicken tenders. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the breaded chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Make sure the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
What is the best way to keep chicken tenders crispy?
To keep chicken tenders crispy, serve them right after cooking. If you need to hold them, keep them on a wire rack in a warm oven. Avoid covering them, as that traps steam and makes them soggy. Use olive oil spray before cooking for extra crispiness too.
This blog post covered how to make crispy chicken tenders using simple ingredients and easy steps. We explored marination, breading, and air frying to get the best results. I shared tips on ensuring crispiness, offered variations, and provided storage options.
With this guide, you can perfect your chicken tender recipe. Experiment with flavors and enjoy your delicious creations. Dive in and make your next meal a hit!
