Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Try my Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Bites! This dish packs flavor into every bite, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or snacks. Using simple ingredients like chicken and everything bagel seasoning, you’ll enjoy a crunchy, savory treat. In this post, I’ll guide you through easy steps, handy tips, and delicious variations to elevate your cooking game. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast
– 1 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
Seasoning Components
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– ½ cup everything bagel seasoning
Optional Add-ons
– Salt to taste
– Cooking spray
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Bites. Start with boneless chicken breast. This choice keeps your bites tender and juicy. You can use buttermilk or plain yogurt for marinating. Both create a tasty base that adds moisture.
Next, you’ll need all-purpose flour. This will help your chicken get a nice crust. For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder bring a savory kick. Paprika adds a hint of warmth, and black pepper gives a gentle spice. Everything bagel seasoning is the star here. It brings all those delicious flavors together.
You might also want to add salt to taste. A little cooking spray helps to prevent sticking in the air fryer. When you have all these ingredients, you are ready to make a flavorful treat that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken pieces in a large bowl. Pour 1 cup of buttermilk over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, try marinating overnight. This helps the chicken become tender and juicy.
Prepare the Coating
In another bowl, mix 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Add a pinch of salt to this mix. Stir well until the mixture looks uniform. This step is key for an even coating on the chicken. The better the coating, the tastier the final bites.
Air Frying Process
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly. After marinating, take the chicken out of the buttermilk. Gently shake off any extra liquid. Dredge each piece in the flour mix. Make sure to coat every surface. Then, dip the chicken in the everything bagel seasoning. Press down lightly so it sticks well.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to avoid sticking. Place the chicken bites in a single layer. Avoid overlapping to allow even cooking. Cook the chicken bites for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even browning. The chicken should be golden brown and reach 165°F (74°C) inside. This ensures your chicken is safe to eat.
Once done, carefully remove the chicken bites. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle, making each bite even tastier.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Crispiness
To get the perfect crispiness, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key for even cooking. Make sure to arrange the chicken bites in a single layer. Avoid overlapping; this allows hot air to circulate freely.
When cooking, flip the bites halfway through. This helps both sides get that golden crunch. Keep an eye on the timer, as cooking takes around 10-12 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Marination Tips
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, overnight marination works wonders. This lets the flavors seep in deeply and tenderizes the meat. Always cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid to keep the chicken fresh.
Ensure every piece of chicken is well-coated in buttermilk. This helps the flour and seasoning stick better.
Dipping Sauce Suggestions
For dipping sauces, creamy ranch or Greek yogurt work great. These add a cool contrast to the warm, crispy chicken. You can also serve them with a spicy sauce if you like a kick.
To make your dish pop, garnish with chopped parsley. A sprinkle of extra everything bagel seasoning on top also enhances both flavor and presentation. Serve on an elegant platter to impress your guests!

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can use different proteins for this recipe. Turkey works great and is leaner. Tofu is perfect for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you press it well to remove extra moisture.
For gluten-free options, swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Many brands create mixes that work well. This keeps the bites tasty and safe for those with gluten allergies.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost flavor? Try adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for heat. A pinch of cumin can also add a nice twist.
You can customize the everything bagel seasoning too. Add a bit of dried dill or crushed red pepper for more flavor. Feel free to play with the mix until you find your favorite blend.
Cooking in Different Appliances
You can also bake these bites in the oven. Preheat it to 425°F (220°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway for even cooking.
If you prefer frying, use a deep fryer. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry until golden brown. This method adds a different texture but can be less healthy than air frying. Each method offers a unique taste and texture.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your chicken bites fresh, refrigerate them right away. Place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps them tasty. Make sure to eat them within three days for the best flavor. If you want, you can also wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy these chicken bites again, use your air fryer for reheating. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This way, you keep them crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safe to eat.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to freeze your chicken bites, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, move them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay fresh for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Cook them straight from the freezer at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes. This keeps them crispy and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use skin-on chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use skin-on chicken. Skin adds extra flavor and moisture. However, it may not get as crispy as skinless chicken when air-fried. The skin may also add more fat, which can make the bites richer. If you want a healthier option, stick to skinless chicken.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
To check if the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is safe to eat. You can also cut into a piece. It should be white and the juices should run clear, not pink.
Can these chicken bites be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these chicken bites ahead of time. Marinate the chicken and coat it in flour and seasoning. Cover and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just follow the air frying steps. For best results, reheat in the air fryer to keep them crispy.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Bites?
These chicken bites pair well with many sides. You can serve them with:
– Fresh salad
– Veggie sticks with dip
– Mashed potatoes
– Rice or quinoa
– A creamy ranch or yogurt sauce for dipping
These sides will complement the flavors of the chicken bites perfectly.
In this blog post, we explored how to make delicious Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Bites. We covered key ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, and flour. You learned the marination process and how to achieve a crispy coating. Tips for perfect cooking and storage were also shared.
Remember, the right spices and techniques make all the difference. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and variations! Perfecting these chicken bites can lead to a fun meal at any time.
