25-Minute Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders You’ll Obsess Over

Oh my gosh, you HAVE to try these Air Fryer Bagel Chicken Tenders! They’re seriously the best thing to happen to weeknight dinners since, well, the air fryer itself. I stumbled onto this combo one night when I was desperate for something quick but packed with flavor—and wow, did it deliver! That everything bagel seasoning (you know, the one with sesame seeds, garlic, onion, poppy seeds, and salt) gives each tender this incredible savory crunch that makes you keep reaching for “just one more.”

What I love most is how the air fryer gets them crazy crispy without all the oil of deep frying. My kids go nuts for them (they think it’s fancy takeout), and I feel good serving them because they’re actually pretty darn healthy. The best part? From fridge to table in under 25 minutes—even faster if you’re like me and keep pre-mixed everything bagel seasoning in your spice drawer. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become your new go-to “I forgot to meal plan” lifesaver.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders

These aren’t just any chicken tenders—they’re a flavor explosion with a crispy crunch that’ll make you swoon. Here’s what makes them so special:

• Lightning fast: Ready in under 25 minutes from fridge to plate (perfect for those “what’s for dinner?!” panic moments)
• That addictive crunch: The air fryer gives you deep-fried crispiness without the greasy mess
• Flavor bomb: Everything bagel seasoning transforms basic chicken into something magical
• Healthier than takeout: Uses way less oil than traditional fried chicken (but tastes just as indulgent)
• Kid-approved magic: My picky eaters gobble these up like candy (shh, don’t tell them it’s protein!)

Seriously, these tenders check all the boxes—easy, tasty, and just fun to eat. You’ll be making them on repeat!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these crave-worthy tenders – and yes, that everything bagel seasoning is the superstar here! I’ve made this enough times to know these exact measurements give you the perfect crispy-to-juicy ratio. (Pro tip: Double the batch – they disappear fast!)

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts sliced into strips – about 12 tenders)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (I use a wide shallow bowl for easy dipping)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (the glue for our crispy coating)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (trust me, panko makes all the difference for crunch)
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (the more the merrier – I sometimes add an extra sprinkle!)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (because can you ever have too much garlic?)
• 1 tsp onion powder (adds that savory depth)
• 1/2 tsp salt (the seasoning has salt too, so go easy)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly cracked is best)
• Cooking spray (just a quick spritz makes them extra golden)

See? Nothing fancy – just pantry staples that come together for something magical. Now let’s get coating!

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How to Make Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

Alright, let’s get down to business! These tenders come together so fast you’ll be crunching into that golden perfection before you know it. Just follow these simple steps – I promise it’s easier than convincing kids to eat their veggies.

Coating the Chicken Tenders

First, set up your dredging station (that’s just a fancy way of saying “get your bowls ready”). I line up three shallow dishes – it makes the coating process a breeze!

1. In the first bowl, add your flour. Give each tender a quick roll in it – this helps the egg stick later. Shake off any excess like you’re dusting off an old record.
2. Next, dip the floured tender into your beaten eggs. Let any extra drip off – we want a thin, even coat, not a slippery egg bath.
3. Finally, press the tender into your panko-everything bagel mixture. Really get in there! Use your dry hand to scoop the crumbs over the top and press gently so they adhere. This is where the magic crunch happens!

Pro tip: Keep one hand for dry ingredients and one for wet to avoid “breadcrumb fingers” (you’re welcome). Lay the coated tenders on a plate while you finish the rest.

Air Frying the Chicken Tenders

Now for the crispy transformation! Here’s how to air fry like a pro:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 3 minutes – this gives you that instant crisp when the chicken hits the basket.
2. Lightly spray the basket with oil, then arrange your tenders in a single layer with some space between them. They need room to crisp up properly – no overcrowding!
3. Cook for 6 minutes, then flip each tender (I use tongs) and cook another 6 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown all over and the internal temperature hits 165°F.

The smell alone will have you drooling! If some tenders are thicker than others, they might need an extra minute – just trust your eyes (and maybe sneak a tiny taste test).

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

After making these dozens of times (okay, maybe hundreds – we’re obsessed!), I’ve picked up some tricks to guarantee perfect tenders every time:

• Spray for extra crunch: A quick spritz of oil on the coated tenders before air frying gives you that golden, crackly exterior we all crave
• Size matters: If your tenders are thicker than your pinky, add 1-2 minutes per side – no one likes undercooked chicken!
• Thermometer trust: The safest way to know they’re done? Check that the thickest part hits 165°F
• Batch wisely: Cook in single layers – overcrowding leads to steamed, soggy breading (the horror!)
• Seasoning hack: Mix extra everything bagel seasoning into your dipping sauce for double the flavor punch

Follow these, and you’ll be the air fryer chicken tender hero of your household!

If you’re craving more crispy chicken with bold flavor, don’t miss these spicy mango chicken wings in the air fryer—sweet heat and crunch in every bite.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

Oh, the possibilities! These tenders are like a blank canvas for all your favorite dips and sides. My family goes wild for:

• Dipping sauces: Ranch is classic (I mix in extra everything seasoning!), honey mustard adds sweet tang, or go wild with sriracha mayo
• Crunchy sides: Fries (air fry them too!), sweet potato wedges, or a simple slaw for freshness
• Light options: Toss them on a salad with creamy dressing – instant fancy lunch!

Honestly? They’re so good we sometimes just eat them straight off the plate – no shame!

Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

Here’s the good news – these tenders taste almost as amazing the next day! Just pop any leftovers in an airtight container (I swear by glass ones) and they’ll keep for up to 3 days in the fridge. When reheating, skip the microwave – it turns them soggy. Instead, toss them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 2-3 minutes to revive that perfect crunch. They won’t be quite as crisp as fresh, but still way better than most leftovers!

Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

Let’s be real – we’re not eating these just because they’re delicious (though they totally are!). Here’s the scoop on what’s in each serving (about 3 tenders):

• 320 calories – way better than deep-fried versions!
• 8g fat (only 2g saturated) – thank you, air fryer magic
• 32g protein – keeps you full for hours
• 25g carbs – mostly from that crispy panko coating

Just remember – nutrition can vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. But compared to traditional fried chicken tenders? These are practically health food (wink).

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FAQs About Air Fryer Everything Bagel Seasoning Chicken Tenders

I get asked these questions ALL the time when friends try these irresistible tenders. Here are the answers to everything you might be wondering: