“Have you ever found yourself staring blankly into the fridge, hoping for a miracle?” That’s where my journey began with these Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders. It was one of those evenings when I craved something comforting yet healthy, and this recipe was the answer. With just a quick prep and bursting with the delightful flavor of everything bagels, these tenders transform ordinary chicken into a crispy sensation that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. Plus, they cater to everyone, being gluten-free, keto-friendly, paleo, and Whole30 compliant, making them an irresistible choice for both the health-conscious and flavor-seeking diners alike. It’s like gourmet comfort food at home, ready in under 30 minutes! Curious yet about how to whip these up in your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Choose Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is bursting with the unmistakable, savory goodness of everything bagel seasoning, making these chicken tenders a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
Quick & Easy: With just a 30-minute prep time, you can enjoy a scrumptious homemade meal without the fuss, leaving more time for family or unwinding after a long day.
Dietary Friendly: These tenders are gluten-free, keto, paleo, and Whole30 compliant, ensuring everyone at the table can indulge without worry.
Crisp & Juicy: Enjoy a perfect balance of a crispy exterior and juicy interior, providing that comforting contrast that makes every bite irresistible.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for sharing, these tenders are guaranteed to impress family and friends, whether served as a snack, appetizer, or a main dish paired with a fresh side salad or some delicious sugar-free ketchup.
Elevate your dinner game and satisfy those cravings with this healthy option that feels indulgent!
Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Ingredients
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For the Egg Wash
• 1 whole egg – Binds the breading ingredients together; for a vegan option, swap with a flax egg.
• 2 tablespoons nut milk (almond or cashew) – Adds moisture to the egg wash; any plant-based milk works just fine.
• 1 tablespoon ghee – Provides richness and helps the breading adhere; use coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative. -
For the Breading
• ½ cup almond flour – Acts as a gluten-free breading alternative; replace with coconut flour if needed but adjust quantity.
• ¼ cup everything bagel seasoning – Infuses the tenders with savory bagel flavors; make your own blend if you can’t find it.
• 2 tablespoons milled flax seed – Adds nutrition and binding power instead of breadcrumbs; omit if unavailable.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – Enhances flavor and color; optional for a hint of heat. -
For the Chicken
• 1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts (sliced lengthwise) – The main protein source for this dish; use chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
• Cooking spray – Prevents sticking during cooking; olive oil spray is a great alternative, or skip it when using parchment paper.
These irresistible Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders are sure to become a new favorite—let’s get cooking!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Device
Begin by preheating your air fryer or oven to 390°F (200°C). This temperature ensures your Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders will crisp beautifully on the outside while remaining juicy inside. It takes about 5 minutes to reach this temperature, so get it heating while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 whole egg, 2 tablespoons of nut milk, and 1 tablespoon of ghee until well combined, creating a smooth egg wash. This mixture not only binds the breading to the chicken but also adds moisture and richness. Set aside your egg wash as you move on to preparing the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Breading
In another bowl, combine ½ cup of almond flour, ¼ cup of everything bagel seasoning, 2 tablespoons of milled flax seed, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Stir them well to form a cohesive dry breading mixture. This blend will infuse the tenders with wonderful bagel flavors, providing that signature crunch that everyone loves.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Take your chicken tenderloins (or sliced chicken breasts) and ensure they are patted dry with a paper towel to enhance adhesion. Dredge each piece in the egg wash, then thoroughly coat it with the dry breading mixture, ensuring every surface gets well covered. Place the coated tenders on a plate, ready for cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry the Tenders
Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they aren’t crowded for even cooking. Spray the tops lightly again with cooking spray, then cook for 6 minutes. After that, flip each tender, spray again, and continue cooking for an additional 6 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
Step 6: Bake the Tenders (Optional)
If you prefer using the oven, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and spray it lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the sheet and spray the tops again. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes, then flip, spray, and bake for another 8 minutes until they are golden and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once your Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer or oven. Serve warm, garnished with extra everything bagel seasoning if desired. These tenders pair wonderfully with sugar-free ketchup or your favorite dairy-free ranch dressing, making for a delightful meal everyone will enjoy!
Storage Tips for Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezer: Freeze the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This prevents them from sticking together.
Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen gluten-free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Thawing: If frozen, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. This ensures they heat evenly and retain their delicious crunch.
What to Serve with Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these crispy, savory chicken tenders with delightful sides and beverages that complement their flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Cauliflower: This silky, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes offers a smooth texture that balances the crunch of the tenders beautifully. It’s rich and satisfying, making every bite a comforting delight.
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Zesty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, red onion, and a light vinegar dressing adds a crisp, bright contrast, enhancing the flavors of the chicken. The coolness of the salad pairs perfectly with the warm, savory tenders.
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Roasted Veggies: A medley of roasted broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers delivers a colorful, nutritious side that brings out the best in the chicken. Their caramelized sweetness and slight char provide a delightful flavor partnership.
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Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: A tangy and sweet sauce not only enhances the chicken’s taste but also adds an extra layer of flavor. It’s easy to create at home with just a few pantry staples, perfectly complementing the everything bagel seasoning.
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Air-Fried Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy texture of air-fried sweet potatoes offer a delightful contrast to the savory tenders. They make for a fun, nostalgic twist on a classic combination.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: Refreshing and palate-cleansing, this drink adds a zesty note to the meal. The effervescence lifts the flavors and enhances the overall dining experience.
With these pairing options, your Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders will shine as the star of a memorable meal!
Expert Tips for Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
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Pat Chicken Dry: Make sure the chicken is patted dry before breading to enhance adhesion and ensure a crispy coating.
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Prevent Clumping: If your breading mixture gets clumpy, switch to a fresh bowl of dry ingredients to maintain an even coating on your tenders.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the chicken pieces; always check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
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Use Consistent Sizing: Try to keep the chicken pieces uniform in size for even cooking and a consistent crunch when making gluten-free everything bagel chicken tenders.
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Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to vary the seasonings. Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the breading for a personal touch!
Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to jazz up your chicken tenders and make them uniquely yours with these delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute ghee with coconut oil or olive oil to keep it creamy without the dairy.
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Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the dry breading for a flavorful kick.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the breading mix, enhancing the savory flavor.
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Try Turkey: Swap out chicken for ground turkey tenderloins for a leaner alternative that’s just as delicious.
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Different Flours: Use chickpea flour instead of almond flour for a nut-free version that delivers a different taste and texture.
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Homemade Seasoning: If you can’t find everything bagel seasoning, create your own blend using sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion powder, and garlic powder.
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Crispy Finish: To get an extra crunchy texture, sprinkle some crushed pork rinds into the breading mixture before coating the chicken.
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Tasty Dipping Sauces: Pair with various dipping sauces like spicy mustard, homemade ranch dressing, or even a sweet chili sauce for an exciting sidekick.
Don’t forget to try these delightful tips to make your meal even more enjoyable, and if you’re looking for more delightful chicken recipes, check out my Crack Chicken Tenders or the mouthwatering Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
Meal prep enthusiasts will love how easy it is to get a jumpstart on these Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders! You can prepare the chicken by coating it in the egg wash and dry breading mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the coated tenders with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain their quality. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them into the air fryer or oven following the cooking instructions for crispy, golden results. This way, you can savor homemade comfort food without the fuss on busy nights, ensuring a delicious meal is just minutes away!
Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely, selecting the right chicken is essential for flavor! Look for tenderloins or chicken breasts that are pink and have a firm texture. Avoid any pieces that appear discolored or have an off smell. Fresh poultry will give you the best results!
How should I store leftover chicken tenders?
After enjoying your delicious Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool before sealing to prevent moisture buildup, which keeps them crispy longer!
Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your chicken tenders, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid—this usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months. For reheating, simply place them in the air fryer or oven to regain their crispiness!
What can I do if the breading doesn’t stick to the chicken?
Very often, the issue arises from the chicken being too wet. Ensure you pat the chicken dry with paper towels before using the egg wash. If it still doesn’t stick, you might want to switch to a fresh bowl of dry breading—this can help prevent clumping and provide a better coat. It’s essential to maintain an even layer for the best crunch!
Are these chicken tenders safe for those with food allergies?
These Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders are great for many diets, but always check ingredient labels carefully if you’re catering to allergies. The recipe is gluten-free and can be adjusted for dairy-free diets as well. If your guests have specific allergies, there’s always room to substitute ingredients, like using a different type of nut milk or avoiding flax seed if nuts are a concern.
How can I ensure even cooking for the chicken tenders?
To achieve even cooking, it’s best to cut your chicken into uniform pieces, ideally about 1-inch thick. This ensures that each piece reaches the same internal temperature at the same time. Also, avoid overcrowding your air fryer or baking sheet, allowing enough space between the tenders for proper air circulation. This way, everyone gets a tender that’s perfectly crispy and juicy!
Gluten-Free Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders for Crunchy Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer or oven to 390°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 whole egg, 2 tablespoons of nut milk, and 1 tablespoon of ghee until well combined.
- In another bowl, combine ½ cup of almond flour, ¼ cup of everything bagel seasoning, 2 tablespoons of milled flax seed, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- Dredge chicken pieces in the egg wash and then coat thoroughly with the breading mixture.
- In an air fryer, spray the basket lightly, arrange the tenders in a single layer, and cook for 6 minutes. Flip, spray again, and cook for another 6 minutes.
- If baking, arrange on a lined baking sheet and spray the tops. Bake for 8 minutes, flip, spray, and bake for another 8 minutes.
- Remove from the air fryer or oven, serve warm with optional garnishes like sugar-free ketchup.
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