Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine? These Everything Bagel Chicken Fingers are a game-changer! This simple and tasty recipe brings all the crunchy, savory goodness of everything bagels straight to your plate. In no time, you’ll enjoy crisp chicken with bold flavors everyone will love. Let's dive into the ingredients and steps you'll need to create this mouthwatering dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Unique Flavor Combination: The everything bagel seasoning adds a delightful twist to classic chicken fingers, making them stand out with every bite.
- Healthy Twist: Using whole wheat flour and baking instead of frying keeps this dish healthier without sacrificing taste.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and quick, perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family cooking activity.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning or try different dipping sauces to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Cooking Everything Bagel Chicken Fingers is fun and simple. Here’s what you need:
List of Ingredients
- Chicken and Coating Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- Seasoning Details
- 3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Additions
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Each ingredient plays a key role. The chicken provides protein, while the eggs help the coating stick. The whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor, and breadcrumbs give that satisfying crunch. Everything bagel seasoning adds a savory touch that truly shines. Use garlic and onion powder for extra depth. You can also add your favorite spices to make it unique.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking. While it heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep the chicken from sticking.
Preparing the Flour Mixture
In a shallow dish, mix 1 cup of whole wheat flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to blend them well. This flour layer gives the chicken a nice base.
Mixing the Egg Coating
Crack 2 large eggs into a second dish. Beat them well with a fork. Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the eggs, and mix until smooth. This mixture helps the breadcrumbs stick.
Creating the Breadcrumb Coating
In a third dish, combine 1 cup of breadcrumbs with 3 tablespoons of everything bagel seasoning, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of onion powder. Stir it all together to mix the flavors evenly.
Coating the Chicken
Take each chicken tender and dip it into the flour mix first. Shake off any extra flour before moving on. This keeps the coating from getting too thick.
Baking Instructions
Next, dip the floured chicken in the egg mix. Let any excess drip back into the bowl. Then, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mix. Make sure it is well coated.
Place the coated chicken fingers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil for extra crunch.
Put the baking sheet in the oven. Bake them for 15-20 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for even browning. They are done when golden brown and fully cooked.
Let the chicken cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your tasty Everything Bagel Chicken Fingers!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crunch
To get that great crunch, follow a few steps. First, use fresh breadcrumbs. They stick better and give a nice texture. Second, make sure to spray the chicken fingers lightly with cooking spray. This helps them crisp up in the oven. Flip them halfway through baking for even cooking.
Best Dipping Sauce Suggestions
Dipping sauces can make this dish even better. Honey mustard is a classic choice. It adds a sweet touch. Ranch dressing is another favorite. Its creamy texture pairs well with the crunchy chicken. For something different, try a spicy sriracha mayo. Just mix mayo with sriracha to taste for a kick.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored easily. Place the chicken fingers in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days in the fridge. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap them well.
Pro Tips
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. They provide a lighter, airier texture that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
- Marinate for More Flavor: For more depth of flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk or yogurt for a couple of hours before coating. This will also help keep the chicken moist.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Don't hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. Smoked paprika or dried herbs can enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Serve Fresh: These chicken fingers are best served immediately after baking. If you need to make them ahead, reheat them in the oven to maintain crispiness, rather than using a microwave.
Variations
Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Fingers
You can make these chicken fingers in an air fryer. This will give them a nice crunch with less oil. To do this, first, follow the recipe as usual. Then, after coating the chicken, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken in a single layer in the fryer basket. Cook for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway. Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method cooks the chicken quickly and keeps it juicy.
Gluten-Free Version
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions. Use almond flour or rice flour for the coating. For breadcrumbs, try gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers. Follow the same steps in the recipe. You’ll still get all the flavor from the everything bagel seasoning, and your chicken fingers will taste just as good.
Spicy Everything Bagel Chicken Fingers
To add a kick to your meal, make spicy everything bagel chicken fingers. Simply mix in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture. You can also use a spicy mustard instead of Dijon for more heat. This variation brings a fun twist to your chicken fingers, perfect for those who enjoy a little extra spice in their food.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown per Serving
Each serving of Everything Bagel Chicken Fingers has about 250 calories. This is a great option for a filling meal without going overboard on calories.
Macronutrient Content
- Protein: 24 grams
- Carbohydrates: 20 grams
- Fat: 10 grams
These numbers show that you get a good amount of protein from the chicken. Plus, you get healthy carbs from the whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Chicken Tenders: These are high in protein, which helps build muscles.
- Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber that aids digestion.
- Eggs: They are rich in vitamins and support brain health.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: This mix adds flavor and contains seeds, which are good for heart health.
Using fresh ingredients makes these chicken fingers not only tasty but also a smart choice for meals.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Cut them into strips about the same size as tenders. This way, they will cook evenly. Keep in mind that cooking time may vary slightly. Check for doneness by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this recipe dairy-free, simply omit any dairy ingredients. The eggs and mustard are fine as they are. Use a dairy-free alternative for cooking spray, like avocado oil. You can also find dairy-free breadcrumbs at the store. Ensure your everything bagel seasoning does not contain dairy.
What other seasonings can I add to my coating?
You can add many seasonings to customize your coating. Try paprika for a smoky flavor or cayenne for heat. You might also like adding Italian herbs like oregano or basil. Mix these in with the breadcrumbs for a tasty twist. Get creative and make it your own!
This post covered how to make crunchy chicken fingers from scratch. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for great results. You learned about tasty variations and nutritional benefits, too.
Remember, cooking can be fun and easy. With the right steps, you’ll impress your family or friends. Enjoy your crispy creation and don’t be afraid to experiment!
