Classic baked chicken tenders get a savory upgrade from the garlic, onion, sesame and poppy seeds in Everything Bagel seasoning. These easy Everything Bagel Chicken tenders are flavorful, crunchy, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
The Most Flavorful Baked Chicken Tenders Ever!
Everything Bagel seasoning — with its mix of poppy seeds, dried onion, garlic, and sesame seeds — adds an irresistible savory crunch to simple baked chicken tenders. This recipe takes a familiar favorite and turns it into something exciting and easy to make.
These tenders are great for families, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner. Serve with your favorite dip for an extra touch.
What You’ll Need
Simple ingredients and a short bake time make this recipe ideal for busy evenings.
- Chicken: 1½ pounds chicken breast tenders. Thaw frozen tenders before using.
- Egg & Milk: 1 large egg and ¼ cup milk to bind the breading.
- Flour & Bread Crumbs: ½ cup flour and ¼ cup plain bread crumbs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and pork panko crumbs.
- Everything Bagel Seasoning: 1½ tablespoons for bold, savory flavor.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon to complement the chicken.
- Olive Oil Spray: 1–2 teaspoons to help crisp the coating.
- Dipping Sauces: Your choice for serving.
How to Make Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Organize your ingredients and have a towel or paper towels nearby to keep your hands clean while breading.
- Preheat oven & prepare pan: Heat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and set aside.
- Make the breading and egg wash: In one bowl whisk together the egg and milk. In a second bowl combine the flour, breadcrumbs, everything bagel seasoning, and paprika.
- Bread the chicken: Working one piece at a time, dip each tender into the flour mixture, then the egg wash, then back into the breading, pressing to adhere. Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spritz with oil & bake: Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray. Bake 10 minutes, flip, spray the other side, and bake 8 more minutes or until golden and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F.
- Rest & serve: Let the tenders rest a couple of minutes, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for Success
- Optional soak: Soak tenders in milk for 30 minutes before breading to help keep them moist. Pat dry before coating.
- Oil both sides: Spray the tenders before baking and again after flipping to promote even crisping.
- Use a thermometer: Check doneness with an instant-read thermometer and remove the tenders at 165°F to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these tenders with easy sides for a complete meal.
- Dips: Honey mustard, honey sriracha, parsley pesto, or classic ketchup all work well.
- Crispy sides: Air-fryer zucchini fries or roasted potatoes complement the crunchy tenders.
- Salad: A crisp avocado-tomato or mixed green salad adds freshness and balance.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Tenders
- Store leftovers in airtight containers or resealable bags in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- To reheat, let tenders sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then bake at 350°F until heated through, flipping once for even reheating.
Can I Freeze Extras?
- Yes. Wrap cooked tenders individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for 2–3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds chicken breast tenders
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ cup flour
- ¼ cup plain bread crumbs (pork panko crumbs can be used)
- 1½ tablespoons everything bagel seasoning blend
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil spray
- Dipping sauces, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil; set aside.
- Whisk together egg and milk in a bowl and set aside.
- In another bowl, combine flour, breadcrumbs, everything bagel seasoning, and paprika.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and back into the breading, pressing to coat. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spray the tenders evenly with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 10 minutes, flip, spray the other side, and bake for 8 more minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the tenders are golden brown.
- Remove from oven, let rest a couple of minutes, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Equipment
- Oven
Video
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 16 g |
Protein: 40 g |
Fat: 7 g |
Saturated Fat: 2 g |
Trans Fat: 1 g |
Cholesterol: 157 mg |
Sodium: 546 mg |
Potassium: 702 mg |
Fiber: 1 g |
Sugar: 1 g |
Vitamin A: 390 IU |
Vitamin C: 2 mg |
Calcium: 43 mg |
Iron: 2 mg
Nutritional info is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Values may vary according to ingredients and tools used.
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below.
More Easy Chicken Recipes to Try
Chicken dinners are versatile and easy. Try these other simple recipes for variety:
- Caprese Chicken Casserole
- Chicken Lo Mein