Get ready to elevate your dinner game with Baked Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders! These crispy, flavorful tenders combine the classic taste of everything bagels with juicy chicken. In this easy guide, I’ll walk you through all the ingredients and steps needed to create this tasty dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a party, these tenders will impress everyone at the table! Let’s dive in.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Required
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup finely crushed everything bagels or everything bagel seasoning
Seasoning Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredient
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
The main ingredients for Baked Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders are simple yet flavorful. Chicken tenders are the star of this dish. They are juicy and cook quickly. Buttermilk adds moisture and flavor. It also makes the chicken very tender.
Next, we have breadcrumbs. They give a nice crunch. You can use regular or whole wheat. The crushed everything bagels or seasoning bring that iconic bagel flavor. It gives the tenders a unique twist!
The seasoning is key to making these tenders pop. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich taste. Garlic and onion powder give depth. Paprika adds a bit of warmth and color. Salt and pepper enhance all these flavors.
Finally, olive oil helps the coating crisp up in the oven. It also adds a touch of healthy fat. All these ingredients come together to create a dish that’s hard to resist.
This flavor-packed meal is perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly. While it heats, you can prepare the rest of the recipe.
2. Soaking chicken in buttermilk: Take 1 pound of chicken tenders and place them in a bowl. Pour 1 cup of buttermilk over the chicken. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This step makes the chicken juicy and flavorful.
Coating the Chicken
1. Mixing the breadcrumb mixture: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/2 cup of finely crushed everything bagels. Add in 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is well blended.
2. Coating technique for chicken tenders: After soaking, remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk. Let the extra buttermilk drip off. Take each tender and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently to make sure the coating sticks well.
Baking Process
1. Arranging chicken on the baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the coated chicken tenders on the sheet. Leave some space between each piece for even cooking.
2. Drizzling with olive oil: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the chicken. This will help the coating turn golden and crispy as it bakes.
3. Baking time and flipping tips: Bake the chicken in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Halfway through, flip the tenders to get them crispy on both sides. The chicken should be cooked through and golden brown when done.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To make your Baked Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders pop, consider these marinades:
– Honey mustard: A sweet and tangy mix.
– Garlic and herb: A classic blend that adds depth.
If you want to switch up the seasonings, try:
– Cajun spice: Adds a bit of heat.
– Smoked paprika: Gives a nice smoky flavor.
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
For the best crunch, bake at 400°F (200°C). This heat makes the coating crisp. Be sure to flip the tenders halfway for even cooking.
Drizzling olive oil is key. It helps the coating brown and become crispy. Use just enough to coat without making them greasy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tenders with tasty dipping sauces such as:
– Ranch: A classic favorite.
– Honey mustard: Sweet and savory.
– Yogurt dip: Light and refreshing.
For a beautiful presentation, arrange the tenders on a platter. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for color. Place dipping sauces in small bowls around the tenders to make it inviting.
Variations
Different Coating Options
You can change up the texture by using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko gives a crunchier bite. It also browns well in the oven. If you want a twist, try using crushed crackers or cornflakes for a fun crunch.
For a different flavor, you can swap everything bagel seasoning. Try a mix of sesame seeds, garlic powder, and onion flakes. You can also use Italian seasoning for a fresh taste. Just remember, keep the ratios balanced.
Alternative Proteins
Chicken tenders are great, but you can use chicken breasts or thighs, too. Breasts are lean and cook fast, while thighs add more flavor and moisture. If you want a plant-based option, tofu works well. Press it to remove moisture, then coat as you would chicken. Fish like salmon or cod can also be a tasty option. Just adjust the cooking time since fish cooks faster.
Dietary Modifications
For gluten-free needs, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts. Almond flour can also work as a great substitute. If you’re avoiding dairy, skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Buttermilk can be replaced with almond milk mixed with a bit of vinegar or lemon juice. This gives a similar tangy effect. These substitutions help everyone enjoy this dish!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Baked Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them from drying out. Place the container in the fridge. They stay good for about 3 to 4 days. If you want them to last longer, freeze them. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, the best way to reheat them is in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. This helps them regain their crispiness. Bake for about 10 to 15 minutes. If you want to use a microwave, place a paper towel under the chicken. This helps absorb moisture and avoid sogginess. Heat in short bursts until warm, checking often to keep them crispy.
FAQs
How long to bake chicken tenders?
Bake chicken tenders for 20 to 25 minutes at 400°F (200°C). The chicken should be cooked through and golden brown. Flip the tenders halfway for even cooking. This step helps them get crispy on all sides.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. However, thaw them before soaking in buttermilk. This makes the coating stick better. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if they are still a bit frozen.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for five minutes. This creates a sour milk that works well in the recipe.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these tenders ahead of time. Prepare them and store in the fridge for up to one day. Bake them just before serving for the best texture. You can also freeze them after coating for later use.
This post shared how to make tasty baked chicken tenders. We covered key ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, and breadcrumbs. I also shared tips to get crunchy texture and enhance flavors.
In the end, you can adapt the recipe with different coatings and proteins. Don’t forget to try out the storage tips and reheating methods for the best results. Enjoy your cooking!
