Name: Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: ½ cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning; 1 large egg; 1 to 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders; ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, ketchup, etc. for serving (adjust to taste)

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There’s something so satisfying about putting a twist on a classic, and that’s exactly what you’ll experience with these Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders. I remember the first time I made them; the sun was shining, and I had some friends over for a casual get-together. I wanted to impress them with something a little different yet comforting. When I brought these crispy, flavorful tenders to the table, the compliments were endless! The unique blend of everything bagel seasoning and the crunch of the panko breadcrumbs made these tenders an instant hit. Every bite was a delightful explosion of flavor that had everyone asking for seconds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
20 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
320 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Large Baking Sheet

What’s Great About This Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders

Unique Flavor Profile

The Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders stand out because they bring the beloved flavor of everything bagels into a delicious chicken dish. The seasoning includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and garlic, which creates a unique taste that elevates the simple chicken tender into something extraordinary.

Perfectly Crispy Texture

Thanks to the use of panko breadcrumbs, these tenders achieve a crunch that you just can’t get with traditional breadcrumbs. The lightness of the panko ensures that they are crispy without being overly heavy, making them a perfect snack or meal.

Easy to Make

If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal idea, this recipe is for you. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dish ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.

Versatile Serving Options

These tenders are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a main course, a hearty snack, or even as an appetizer at parties. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or blue cheese dressing for a crowd-pleasing experience.

Great for Meal Prep

One of the best things about these Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders is that they store well. You can easily make a big batch and keep them in the fridge for up to five days, making them perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating the delicious Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders. The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe makes it truly special. The star of the show is the chicken tenders, which are not only tender but also absorb all the delightful flavors from the seasonings. The panko breadcrumbs add that much-needed crunch, while the everything bagel seasoning infuses each bite with its aromatic, savory goodness.

½ cup panko breadcrumbs: These light and crispy breadcrumbs create a delightful crunch on the chicken.
2 tablespoons Everything But The Bagel Sesame Seasoning: This seasoning mix adds a unique flavor profile, making these tenders stand out.
1 large egg: The egg acts as a binder to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
1 to 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders: The main protein that you’ll be coating and baking to perfection.
Ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, ketchup, etc. for serving: These dips complement the tenders beautifully and bring an extra layer of flavor.

Putting Together Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders

Making these Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders is as simple as it is enjoyable. You’ll love how quickly they come together, allowing you to indulge in deliciousness in no time. Follow these steps closely to ensure the perfect outcome every time!

Start by preheating your oven to 400F. While that’s heating up, line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. This will make cleanup a breeze.
Next, take a large ziptop storage bag and add the panko breadcrumbs along with the everything bagel seasoning. Seal the bag and give it a good shake to mix everything thoroughly.
In a medium bowl, crack the egg and lightly beat it with a fork. Then, add in your chicken tenders. Use the fork to toss and flip the chicken, ensuring each piece is coated evenly with the egg.
Once the chicken is well-coated, remove it from the bowl using the fork, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Place the chicken into the prepared ziptop bag with the breadcrumb mixture.
Seal the bag tightly and shake it vigorously. This will ensure that the chicken is evenly coated with the seasoned breadcrumbs, giving it that satisfying crunch.
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced evenly. If any excess panko remains in the bag, don’t hesitate to sprinkle it over the tops of the chicken to fill in any sparse areas.
Bake the chicken in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. To ensure even cooking, flip the tenders halfway through the baking process. You’ll want them to turn a lovely golden brown.
Once the cooking time is up, remove the tenders from the oven. Serve them immediately while they are still hot with your choice of dip, whether it be ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even ketchup.
Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 4 months. Just keep in mind that reheated chicken won’t retain its original crispiness.

Things Worth Knowing

For the best flavor: Make sure to use fresh everything bagel seasoning. If it’s been sitting in your spice cabinet for a while, it may not have the same punch.
Chicken size matters: Try to use chicken tenders of similar size to ensure even cooking throughout.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Leaving space between tenders allows for better air circulation, which helps achieve that crispy texture.
Experiment with dips: While ranch and blue cheese are classic choices, feel free to get creative with your dipping sauces!

Make It Your Own

Every chef has their own touch to add, and these Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders are no exception. Here’s how you can customize this recipe to make it your own!

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Ensure they are cooled completely before sealing to maintain their texture.
Freezing: If you want to freeze the baked tenders, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. This prevents clumping and makes it easier to take out just what you need later.
Pairing: Serve these tenders with a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. They also make a fantastic appetizer at gatherings.
Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add some cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Alternative proteins: Feel free to substitute chicken tenders with other proteins like fish or tofu, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

What Complements This Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders

Pairing the Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders with the right side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here’s how to serve them:

Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings a refreshing contrast to the richness of the tenders.
Classic French Fries: Serve alongside crispy fries for a comforting and familiar combo that everyone loves.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the crunch of the chicken, making for a hearty meal.
Dip Selection: Offer a variety of dips, such as ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli to cater to different palates.
Occasions: These tenders are perfect for casual dinners, game day snacks, or even a festive gathering when you want something easy yet impressive.

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but ensure they are fully thawed before coating them with the breadcrumb mixture. This will help the coating adhere better and ensure even baking.

These tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of dips such as ranch dressing, blue cheese, or honey mustard. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal experience.

Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to four months.

Absolutely! You can prepare and coat the chicken tenders ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to bake them fresh for the best crunch!

Conclusion

The Everything Bagel Baked Chicken Tenders are a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining familiar flavors with a crispy texture that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the unique taste that comes from the everything bagel seasoning. It’s a dish that not only appeals to your taste buds but also brings a fun and delicious element to any meal. Don’t hesitate to make it tonight!