Crispy Everything Bagel Crusted Chicken Tenders

Looking for a way to level up your weeknight dinner? These Everything Bagel Crusted Chicken Tenders combine the crunch of traditional breaded chicken with the iconic, savory punch of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and poppy seeds. This recipe is optimized for both air fryers and traditional ovens, ensuring a golden-brown finish every time without the need for deep frying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken Tenders: 1 lb (approx. 8-10 pieces), patted dry.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: 3-4 tablespoons (store-bought or homemade).
• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (adds extra crunch).
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup for the initial dredge.
• Eggs: 2 large, beaten (acts as the binder).
• Cooking Spray: Olive oil or avocado oil spray.
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for a hint of warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Stations

Set up three shallow bowls. In the first, place the flour and a pinch of salt. In the second, the beaten eggs. In the third, combine the Panko breadcrumbs and the Everything Bagel seasoning.

2. The Dredging Process

Take a chicken tender and coat it lightly in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the egg wash until fully submerged, then press firmly into the Everything Bagel and Panko mixture. Ensure the seasoning adheres to all sides.

3. Cooking Method: Oven or Air Fryer

• Oven Method: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Place tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Air Fryer Method: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place tenders in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Spray with oil. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping at the 6-minute mark.

4. Rest and Serve

Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside and prevents the crust from falling off. Pair with a honey mustard or spicy mayo dipping sauce.

Fact-Check & Cooking Tips

• Why Panko? Using 100% Everything Bagel seasoning can sometimes lead to an overly salty crust. Mixing it with Panko balances the sodium and improves the texture.
• Internal Temp: According to the USDA, poultry must reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe for consumption.
• Seasoning Burn: Garlic and onion flakes in bagel seasoning can burn at high temperatures. If using an air fryer, keep an eye on the tenders after the 10-minute mark to prevent bitterness.
• Low Carb Option: To make this keto-friendly, swap the flour for almond flour and the Panko for crushed pork rinds or additional parmesan cheese.