Crispy Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Quick and easy crispy chicken tenders coated with everything bagel seasoning, cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer. Perfect for busy weeknights or snacks with a flavorful, crunchy crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders, trimmed of excess fat
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (60 g), or almond flour for gluten-free
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray (preferably avocado oil spray)
- Salt and pepper, a pinch each
- Optional: ¼ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (25 g), mixed with seasoning
- Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika added to flour
Instructions
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with everything bagel seasoning (plus Parmesan or smoked paprika if using).
- Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the seasoning mix, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding.
- Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the tenders rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat chicken dry before coating for best crispness. Preheat air fryer to ensure instant sizzle and crisp crust. Avoid overcrowding the basket; cook in batches if needed. Use a light spray of oil, not drenching. Flip halfway through cooking. For gluten-free, use almond flour and gluten-free seasoning. For dairy-free, substitute eggs with flax egg and use dairy-free seasoning. Reheat in air fryer to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 4 chic
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, everything bagel seasoning, crispy chicken, quick dinner, easy chicken recipe, kid-friendly, snack, appetizer