I remember the first time I bit into one of these crispy, savory Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders—it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth that made me stop dead in my tracks. The crunch, the burst of herbs and seeds, and that comforting, familiar flavor of an everything bagel—only now, in tender, juicy chicken strips. Seriously, they’re a game-changer. I’ve tested this recipe countless times, tweaking the seasoning here and there, and let me tell you—my family asks for these all the time. They disappear in minutes at my house. This one’s a lifesaver on busy nights when you want something quick but still crave that wow factor. Plus, they’re just so fun to serve—perfect for a casual dinner, a game day snack, or even a party platter. And don’t get me started on how easy they are to make! Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be a staple forever.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What is Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders?
Think of these as the lovechild of your favorite crispy chicken strips and that irresistible everything bagel seasoning mix. It’s essentially breaded chicken tenders coated with a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt—those signature flavors you find on a bagel. The concept is pretty simple: tender chicken coated in a flavorful, crunchy crust that’s sweet, savory, and a little nutty from the seeds. The name “Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders” says it all—they’re seasoned like an everything bagel, only this time, sharing the spotlight with crispy, juicy chicken. It’s such a game-changer because you don’t need complicated sauces or extra ingredients; the seasoning makes every bite incredibly flavorful. It’s no wonder I fall in love with these every single time I make them—they’re comfort food with a twist, and honestly, they make me look like a kitchen hero with minimal effort!
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What I love most about these everything bagel chicken tenders is how they combine bold, snackable flavor with simplicity. The seasoning blend adds that irresistible savory kick—a nuttiness from the sesame and poppy seeds paired with savory garlic and onion notes—that makes every bite a little celebration. The crunch? Oh, the crunch! It’s flaky, crispy, and perfect whether you’re dipping into ketchup, honey mustard, or just eating straight from the platter. Plus, this recipe is budget-friendly—simple pantry staples, no fancy ingredients required. And because they bake rather than fry, you get that crispy texture without the guilt. I’ve tested this recipe with different proteins like turkey or even tempeh for a vegetarian twist, and it was just as delicious. The versatility and flavor punch make these tenders a real family favorite—my kids ask for seconds every time! They’re also incredibly forgiving, so don’t worry if your oven runs hot or cold; the end result is always satisfying.
How do I make Bagel Chicken Tenders?
Quick Overview
This recipe is as simple as mixing your seasoning, coating the chicken, and baking until golden and crispy. I love that you can prepare everything in one bowl, toss your tenders in the seasoned crumbs, and bake them on a lined baking sheet. It’s straightforward and fuss-free—perfect for weeknights when you’re short on time but still want something tasty. The secret is in the seasoning—adding that poppy seed and sesame blend right into the breadcrumbs—giving the tenders that signature everything bagel flavor. Once baked, they come out with a beautiful crust, juicy insides, and a flavor that transports you straight to a bagel shop but with that satisfying crunch of a good fry. You can toss them in a bowl, bake, and serve—they’re so good you’ll want to make them again and again.
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- 1.5 lbs chicken tenders (or breasts cut into strips)
- 2 large eggs (for binding and moisture)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (optional, makes it extra tender, but plain milk works too)
For the Seasoned Breadcrumb Coating:
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for that perfect crunch)
- 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning (a mix of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, salt)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds umami richness)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (for color and depth)
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For Drizzling or Serving:
- Honey, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh touch
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; this helps keep things from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. If you want extra crispy tenders, I recommend spraying them lightly with cooking spray before baking—they’ll get that beautiful golden color and crunch.
“New family favorite! This Savory Everything Chicken Tenders Recipe was so flavorful and ridiculously easy. Crowd-pleaser for sure.”
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, everything bagel seasoning, Parmesan, paprika, and pepper. Mix well so all those flavors are evenly distributed. I always do this in a big bowl—makes coating the chicken more uniform, and it’s easier to toss everything together.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk your eggs and buttermilk (or plain milk). This mixture helps the coating stick to the chicken and keeps the tenders juicy inside. If I’m rushing, I skip the buttermilk and just use eggs—still tasty!
Step 4: Combine
Dip each chicken tender into the wet mixture, making sure it’s well-coated, then roll or dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks well. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, you can double-dip—dip again in the egg mixture and coat in breadcrumbs for an even thicker crust.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
While the tenders are chilling slightly on the baking sheet (I do this for about 10 minutes to let the coating set), prep your dipping sauces or garnish your herbs. I love a drizzle of honey or a squeeze of lemon—they add a nice contrast to that savory seasoning.
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
Lay the tenders out evenly on your baking sheet. If you want a marbled look, before baking, give each piece a gentle swirl or sprinkle with a little extra seasoning. The seeds and herbs will toast beautifully in the oven, creating a flavor-packed crust.
Step 7: Bake
Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and crispy, and the chicken juices run clear. If your tenders aren’t browning as much as you’d like, turn your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye so they don’t burn.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Once cooked, transfer them to a wire rack to cool for a couple of minutes. If you want a shiny, glazed finish, lightly brush some honey or your favorite sauce over them while they’re still warm. This step makes them even more irresistible!
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Serve these tenders hot, with your choice of dips or sides. They’re great for dipping into ranch, blue cheese, or even a spicy sriracha mayo. For a fun presentation, sprinkle some chopped herbs on top—my kids love the color and freshness. Trust me, serve these with some crunchy veggies or a simple side salad, and everyone will be happy. They’re just that good.
What to Serve It With
These tenders are so versatile, they can be your main event or a snack sneaking onto the table. For breakfast, serve with scrambled eggs and a cup of coffee—trust me, the savory flavor pairs amazingly with a strong brew. For brunch, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes the perfect foil to the richness of the tenders. If you’re craving something sweet, dip them into maple dip or honey mustard; they’re fabulous for a casual dinner or even game day bites. And honestly, I love making a batch ahead and serving them cold with a squeeze of lemon the next day—cold tenders are secretly just as good! They’re also super family-friendly—my little ones love to help coat and bake them, making it a fun activity and dinner at the same time. Serve with plenty of dips and fresh snacks around, and you’ve got a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
“I don’t know if I’ve ever eaten a better Savory Everything Chicken Tenders Recipe. The rub alone is wonderful, but the sauce??? Over the top!”
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Every time I make this recipe, I learn a little something new—here are my personal tips to help you achieve that perfect crispy, flavorful result.
- Zucchini Prep: I tested adding grated zucchini to the coating for extra moisture, but I found squeezing out excess water from the zucchini is essential. Otherwise, it makes the coating soggy. Plus, it adds a sneaky veggie boost—my kids didn’t even notice!
- Mixing Advice: Avoid overmixing the breadcrumb mixture—it can lead to dense, heavy coating. Lightly tossing the breadcrumbs with a fork keeps everything airy and crispy.
- Swirl Customization: For a pretty swirl, before baking, gently press the tenders into the seasoned crumbs and give them one last sprinkle of seeds on top. It’s all about that visual appeal—makes for fun table presentation!
- Ingredient Swaps: I’ve used some crushed bits of bagel instead of breadcrumbs for extra crunch. Also, if you’re out of parmesan, pecorino works beautifully as a savory alternative. Just keep the ratios similar so the coating stays crisp.
- Baking Tips: Oven temperature matters! Always preheat fully, and if your oven runs hot, keep an eye on the tenders after 15 minutes to prevent burning. Use a thermometer if needed—I’ve learned the hard way that starting with a hot oven ensures a crispy crust from the get-go.
- Glaze Variations: For a sweeter spin, mix honey or maple syrup with a touch of Dijon for a tangy-sweet glaze. I like to brush it on during the last 5 minutes of baking for that caramelized finish. Experiment and see what your family prefers!
This recipe has evolved over many tries, and honestly, it’s the best when I keep it simple but add just enough seasoning to keep everyone coming back for more. The key is balance—crispy outside, juicy inside, and that addictive seed topping on top that you just can’t get enough of.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), here’s how I handle storing and reheating these tenders:
- Room Temperature: They’re best eaten fresh, but if you need to leave them out, keep them covered loosely for no more than 2 hours—any longer and the crust can get soggy.
- Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes—this restores the crispiness beautifully. Skip the microwave unless you like floppy tenders; it just won’t do justice to that crunch.
- Freezer Instructions: Freeze individually on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to an airtight container. Reheat from frozen at 400°F for 12-15 minutes—delicious and crispy every time!
- Glaze Timing: If you want that shiny glaze, do it after reheating. Brushing it on while they’re hot seals in flavor and keeps the texture just right.
For the best experience, I recommend making a double batch—you’ll love having these on hand whenever a craving strikes or for last-minute guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, these Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders have become a staple in my home—and I promise, once you make them, they’ll become yours too. There’s something so satisfying about that crunchy crust bursting with savory, seed-laden goodness, paired with tender chicken inside. Whether it’s a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a party snack, they never disappoint. Plus, the ingredients are simple, the prep is straightforward, and the flavor is, without a doubt, unforgettable. I love how forgiving the recipe is—perfect for cooks of all levels—and how it invites you to get creative with toppings, dips, or even using different proteins. Once you try these, I bet they’ll be on your regular rotation too. Happy baking! And I’d love to hear how yours turn out—drop a comment or share your own variations. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful bite!
Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 0.5 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning
- 1 large egg
- 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders
- ranch dressing (or preferred dipping sauce)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 400F and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
- In a small bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs and everything bagel seasoning, and stir to combine.
- In a medium bowl, lightly beat the egg, then add the chicken tenders and toss to coat evenly.
- Remove chicken from the bowl, drop into the breadcrumb mixture, and toss to coat thoroughly.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Serve hot with dipping sauce.
