Name: Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds chicken breast tenders; 1 large egg; ¼ cup milk; ½ cup flour; ¼ cup plain bread crumbs; 1½ tablespoons everything bagel seasoning blend; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil spray; Dipping sauces, for serving

If you love the bold, savory crunch of everything bagels, wait until you try this Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe. These baked tenders are packed with all those irresistible seasoning flavors, delivering a juicy, crispy bite every time.

The image shows several pieces of golden-brown crispy fried chicken strips lying on a white marbled surface. Each chicken strip has a crunchy texture with small black and white sesame seeds sprinkled on top, adding contrast. The chicken pieces vary slightly in shape and size, with some appearing thicker and others thinner and longer. To the upper right side, there is a small clear glass bowl filled with a creamy light beige dipping sauce that has tiny specks of seasoning visible. The overall presentation is close-up, capturing the details of the crispy coating and the scattered sesame seeds around the chicken strips. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I can’t get enough of these chicken tenders! They’re super easy to make, and the everything bagel seasoning takes the flavor to the next level — no deep frying required.

Crispy & Flavorful: The combination of paprika and everything bagel seasoning means you get a crunchy, garlicky coating on every tender bite.
Oven-Baked Convenience: No need for frying; just a quick bake at 425°F gives you golden, juicy chicken tenders.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a game day snack, these tenders are always a crowd-pleaser.
Customizable Dippings: Serve with your favorite sauces — ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo work wonders!

Ingredients & Why They Work

Putting together these tenders means picking up a few simple ingredients, but each one plays a key role. Everything bagel seasoning is the star here, bringing that signature mix of garlic, onion, sesame, and poppy seeds that turn basic chicken into something special.

Flat lay of fresh raw chicken breast tenders, a whole large brown egg with a clean shell, a small white ceramic bowl of milk, a small white ceramic bowl of white all-purpose flour, a small white ceramic bowl of plain golden bread crumbs, a small white ceramic bowl of everything bagel seasoning blend with visible sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, and garlic flakes, a small white ceramic bowl of bright red paprika powder, a small white ceramic bowl with golden olive oil -- all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Chicken Breast Tenders: Tender, lean, and perfect for quick cooking and crispy coating.
Egg: Helps the breading stick beautifully to the chicken for maximum crispiness.
Milk: Thins out the egg slightly to create the perfect dip for even coating.
Flour: Provides a dry base layer that helps the breading crisp up in the oven.
Plain Bread Crumbs: Adds crunch and texture; you can swap for panko if you want extra crispness.
Everything Bagel Seasoning Blend: The flavor powerhouse full of garlic, onion, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and gorgeous color to the coating.
Olive Oil Spray: A light mist ensures the tenders bake up golden and crisp without frying.
Dipping Sauces: The finishing touch for endless flavor options to enjoy with every bite.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

The Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe is such a versatile crowd-pleaser! Feel free to tweak the seasoning or breading to suit your tastes or dietary needs, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your dipping sauces to add some personal flair.

Swap the Breadcrumbs: I love using panko crumbs for an even crunchier texture, but plain breadcrumbs work great too. For a gluten-free version, try crushing gluten-free crackers or using almond meal.
Spice It Up: When I want a little extra kick, I mix a bit of cayenne pepper or chili powder into the breading. It gives the tenders a subtle smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the everything bagel seasoning.
Go Dairy-Free: Instead of the egg and milk wash, try dipping the tenders in a dairy-free yogurt or a flax egg to keep everything moist and help the coating stick.
Seasonal Twist: Add fresh chopped herbs like dill or chives to the breading mix in spring and summer for a bright, fresh flavor that complements the garlic and sesame notes.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe

The image shows five pieces of raw chicken covered with a crunchy golden brown coating that has black and white sesame seeds mixed in. The chicken pieces lie flat on a white marbled surface, arranged with some gaps between them. The coating texture looks crumbly and rough, with some seasoning bits scattered around the chicken on the surface. The pieces vary in size and shape, with the chicken visible under parts of the coating. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is key for baking the tenders to crispy perfection without deep frying. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil—this makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Egg Wash

In a mixing bowl, whisk one large egg and ¼ cup of milk until they’re well combined and smooth. This mixture helps the breading adhere to each chicken tender perfectly, so make sure it’s mixed well but not frothy.

Step 3: Mix Your Crunchy Breading

In a separate bowl or on a large plate, combine ½ cup flour, ¼ cup plain bread crumbs, 1½ tablespoons everything bagel seasoning, and 1 teaspoon paprika. This blend brings a savory depth with a pop of color from the paprika. Stir until everything is evenly distributed — this is what will give your tenders that irresistible crunch and flavor.

Step 4: Coat, Dip, and Coat Again

One tender at a time, first toss it in the dry breading mixture to lightly cover the surface. Then dip the tender into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, before rolling it again in the breading to lock in a double layer of crispiness. This double dredge is my secret to a perfectly crunchy crust.

Step 5: Ready, Set, Bake!

Arrange the breaded chicken tenders evenly on the lined baking sheet, making sure they don’t touch so they bake evenly. Spray them all over with 1 to 2 teaspoons of olive oil spray—this little step helps them get that golden-brown color and crispy texture without frying. Pop them into the oven for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Flip and Finish Baking

After 10 minutes, carefully flip each tender over with tongs or a spatula. Spray the tops again lightly with olive oil spray to encourage even browning. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 8 minutes, or until the tenders turn golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit—always use a meat thermometer to be safe!

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once baked, remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest a couple of minutes on the baking sheet. This pause helps the juices redistribute so every bite is juicy and flavorful. Then serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch, honey mustard, or a tangy sriracha mayo are all winners in my book!

Top Tip

Mastering the Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe is all about technique and a few insider tricks to get that perfect crunch without frying.

Double Dipping: I found that dipping the chicken first into the dry mixture, then the egg, and back into the dry coating ensures the breading sticks well and stays crispy after baking.
Olive Oil Spray: Spraying the tenders liberally before and after flipping really helps achieve that golden, crunchy exterior without the excess oil of frying.
Don't Crowd the Pan: Leaving space between each tender on the baking sheet prevents steaming and keeps the coating crisp.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To avoid any guesswork, checking that the internal temp hits 165°F guarantees perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time.

How to Serve Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe

A white plate holds six golden-brown crispy chicken strips with a rough, crunchy texture, sprinkled with black and white sesame seeds and small green parsley pieces. The chicken pieces are arranged in a casual pile with some overlapping. On the right side of the plate, there is a small clear glass bowl filled with light yellow dipping sauce topped with the same sesame seeds and parsley. The plate is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives instantly brightens the tenders visually and adds a subtle herbal note. A dusting of extra everything bagel seasoning right before serving amps up the savory pop, and serving lemon wedges on the side gives a delightful zing that complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

These tenders pair wonderfully with creamy coleslaw or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing balance. Crispy sweet potato fries or roasted garlic mashed potatoes add a comforting touch, while a simple side of steamed green beans or broccoli keeps it light and healthy. Don’t forget your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy aioli to complete the meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling completely, store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making them perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 1 month. This is great for prepping meals ahead or having a tasty snack ready anytime.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F for 8–10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that crunch intact, but it works well if you’re in a hurry.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders. Just be sure to adjust baking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through to 165°F internally.

How do I make these tenders extra crispy?

Using panko crumbs instead of plain bread crumbs can boost crunchiness, and don’t skip the olive oil spray before baking. Also, avoid overcrowding your pan which can cause sogginess.

Is everything bagel seasoning spicy?

No, everything bagel seasoning isn’t spicy. It’s a flavorful blend of garlic, onion, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and salt that adds a savory crunch without heat.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives and double-check that your everything bagel seasoning blend is gluten-free. The rest of the recipe stays the same.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Tenders Recipe transforms ordinary chicken tenders into a crunchy, flavorful delight that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight meal or serving appetizers at a gathering, these tenders deliver that satisfying crunch and savory seasoning without the fuss of frying. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I do—and don’t forget to experiment with your favorite sauces to find your perfect combo!