If you love the bold, savory flavor of everything bagel seasoning, just wait until you try it on crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders! This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the nostalgic crunch of classic chicken fingers and the irresistible blend of sesame, poppy, garlic, onion, and salt. These aren’t just for kids—they’re a protein-packed snack, party appetizer, or healthy dinner that’s way more interesting than plain old nuggets. If you’re ready to shake up your mealtime routine, let’s get crunchy!
Why Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Are a Game Changer
Here’s the deal: chicken tenders are always a win, but most versions are either boring or deep-fried (not ideal if you care about healthy eating). Enter everything bagel chicken tenders—the solution to boring dinners, picky eaters, and snack emergencies. The crunchy coating delivers major texture, while the seasoning packs each bite with a salty, garlicky punch.
What Makes Them Irresistible?
- Crispy, crunchy crust: Baked or air-fried, you get real crunch with way less oil.
- All the flavor: That everything bagel mix is iconic for a reason.
- High in protein: A great post-workout snack or meal-prep lunch.
- Versatile: Serve with salads, stuff in wraps, or dunk in your favorite dip (ranch, honey mustard, or tzatziki, anyone?).
- Easy to make: No complicated ingredients, no deep fryer required.
Honestly, these were an instant hit in my house—and I’m pretty sure my friends now invite themselves over just for chicken tender night.
Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders: The Star Ingredients
You only need a few simple items for these chicken tenders, but each one matters for maximum crunch and flavor:
- Chicken tenders or chicken breast strips (boneless, skinless)
- Everything bagel seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Panko or gluten-free breadcrumbs (for that ultra-crunchy coating)
- Eggs (to help the coating stick)
- A little bit of flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
- Olive oil spray or melted butter (for golden color)
- Salt & black pepper
Optional add-ins: a pinch of cayenne for heat, or grated parmesan for extra richness.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- Preheat oven to 425°F (or preheat your air fryer).
- Set up a breading station: flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, panko mixed with everything bagel seasoning in a third.
2. Bread the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip in egg, then press into the panko/everything bagel mixture.
- Lay breaded tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet (for even crisping).
3. Bake or Air Fry
- Spray the tops lightly with olive oil or brush with melted butter.
- Bake 16–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through. In the air fryer, they’re done in about 10–12 minutes.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Let cool slightly (they’ll crisp even more as they sit).
- Serve with your favorite dip or tuck them into a wrap, salad, or sandwich.
Table: Nutrition Breakdown (Per Chicken Tender Serving)
| Ingredient | Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken breast (4 oz) | 124 | 0 | 26 | 1 |
| Panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup) | 110 | 22 | 3 | 1 |
| Egg (½ large) | 35 | 0.3 | 3 | 2.5 |
| Flour (1 tbsp) | 28 | 6 | 1 | 0 |
| Everything bagel seasoning (1 tbsp) | 30 | 3 | 1 | 2 |
| Olive oil spray (1 tsp) | 40 | 0 | 0 | 4.5 |
| Total per serving | 367 | 31.3 | 34 | 11.5 |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the brand of seasoning or if you add cheese or extra oil.
Nutrition Summary:
These everything bagel chicken tenders are a balanced, high-protein meal or snack that keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy. They’re lower in fat and calories than fast food, and you can make them gluten-free or low-carb with a few easy swaps.
What Is Everything Bagel Seasoning (And Why Is It Addictive)?
If you’re new to the hype, everything bagel seasoning is a blend of sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, onion, and flaked salt. It’s savory, a little nutty, and packs major flavor into every bite. You can find it at most grocery stores, or make your own at home in just a few minutes.
Pro tip: Sprinkle extra on popcorn, roasted veggies, or even avocado toast!
Ways to Serve Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Not just for dipping—here are some creative ways to enjoy these tenders:
- Chicken tender wrap: With lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki in a flatbread.
- On a salad: Slice over a Greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and feta.
- Chicken tender sliders: On mini buns with a swipe of mayo and pickles.
- Kid-friendly dinner: With sweet potato fries and carrot sticks.
- Protein snack box: Pair with hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and fruit for meal prep.
You get the picture—these tenders play well with almost everything.
Common Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them!)
- Soggy coating: Always use a rack to let air circulate; never overcrowd your pan.
- Under-seasoned chicken: The seasoning is on the outside, but salt your chicken for the best flavor.
- Dry tenders: Don’t overbake—pull them out as soon as they’re cooked through.
- Burnt coating: Watch carefully near the end of cooking, especially if using a convection oven or air fryer.
Side note: If your coating won’t stick, make sure your chicken is patted dry and your egg is beaten well.
Real-Life Analogy: These Tenders Are the “Cool Kid” of Weeknight Dinners
Imagine your classic breaded chicken, but with a makeover from the trendy everything bagel shop. Every bite is like the best part of a bagel—bold, crunchy, and packed with flavor. IMO, you’ll be snacking straight from the pan before they ever hit the table.
Last time I made these for a game night, they were gone before kickoff. Friends were already asking for the recipe (and hinting for next week’s flavor!).
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
- Use a wire rack: Essential for all-around crispiness.
- Spray with oil (not just brush): This gives a lighter, even golden color.
- Double-dip: For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step.
- Try air frying: Fast, super crispy, and minimal cleanup.
Flavor Twists & Fun Add-Ons
- Add parmesan or sharp cheddar to the panko mix for cheesy flavor.
- Spicy version: Mix cayenne or chili flakes into the breading.
- Sesame swap: Add more sesame seeds for a nuttier crunch.
- Buffalo style: Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for game day.
FAQ: Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders
Q1: Can I freeze the chicken tenders after baking?
Yes! Let cool, freeze in a single layer, then store in a zip bag. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
Q2: Are these good for meal prep?
Totally. Store in the fridge and re-crisp in the oven or air fryer before eating.
Q3: Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes—use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Q4: What’s the best dip?
Ranch, honey mustard, sriracha mayo, or classic ketchup all work!
Q5: Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes! Just cut into strips—they’re extra juicy.
Try It and Tell Me Your Twist!
Ready to join the everything bagel chicken club? Try these crunchy chicken tenders and let me know your favorite way to serve them. Got a genius dip, flavor combo, or meal-prep hack? Drop it in the comments! (Bonus points for sending photos—I love seeing your creations! 🥳🍗)
Want more flavor inspiration? Check out these healthy chicken recipes from EatingWell for your next kitchen adventure.
Final thought:
Why settle for plain when you can have everything? Make these chicken tenders once and you’ll never look back. (Just don’t blame me when your friends start asking for “chicken tender night” every week!)
Now go grab that everything bagel seasoning and get crispy!
