Good on Everything

Indulge in the Ultimate Trio: Everything Spice Delights with a Twist

Have you ever come across a culinary experience that captured the savory richness of "Everything Bagel" seasoning in three mouthwatering ways? Today, I’m thrilled to share a trio of recipes that will transform your mealtime spread into an unforgettable flavor journey. Whether you’re hosting game night or simply indulging in a weekend treat, these recipes promise both comfort and an exciting rendezvous of flavors.

Our star ingredients—Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and frozen popcorn chicken—pair beautifully with the magic of "Everything Bagel" seasoning, elevating each dish to a new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re whipping up a creamy cheese spread or preparing tangy chicken bites, these dishes are set to impress with their layered flavors and textures.

Before diving into cooking, let's chat about preparation tips. Make sure to set out ingredients like cream cheese to soften, which simplifies blending, and ensure your baking sheet is properly greased or lined to prevent any sticking during baking. Pay attention to the shading while shredding cheese or applying seasoning; these aspects subtly shape the overall taste and experience.

Equip yourself with a reliable electric mixer for smooth blending and use a quality stockpot to handle and meld all flavors efficiently. These tools will aid significantly in achieving that perfect consistency and mouth-feel we’re aiming for.

Ingredients

Everything Spice Cheese Spread

• 4 oz cream cheese: Acts as a dip base, becoming smooth and creamy when softened.
• 1 cup reduced-fat mayonnaise: Contributes a luscious texture and slight tang.
• ½ teaspoon ground red pepper: Provides a mild spicy kick.
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard: Adds a zesty edge balancing the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon pink (or kosher) salt: Enhances the seasoning blend without overpowering it.
• 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Brings creaminess and a base of mild flavor.
• 2 teaspoons Everything Bagel Seasoning: The star player offering a crispy, savory layer.
• Chips, crackers, or vegetable tray (optional): Perfect for serving and dipping into the spread.

Everything Bread-Bites with Beer Cheese Fondue

• 1 refrigerated prerolled pizza dough (14–15 oz): A quick base for creating irresistibly fluffy bread bites.
• ¼ cup egg substitute (or 1 large egg), beaten: Helps in binding seasoning to dough.
• 3 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning, divided: Provides a uniform flavor enhancement.
• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Creates richness and depth in the fondue.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the fondue to a silky consistency.
• 12 oz lager beer (or whole milk): Infuses the fondue with a subtle earthy flavor.
• 1 cup half-and-half (or whole milk): Provides creaminess to complement the cheese.
• ¼ teaspoon ground red pepper (optional): Adds an extra hint of heat.
• 6–8 oz aged cheddar cheese, shredded: Offers a sharp, bold cheese flavor.

Everything Chicken with Hot Honey Glaze

• Cooking spray: Ensures the chicken doesn't stick and facilitates easy cleanup.
• 1 bag frozen popcorn chicken (20–26 oz): Provides a quick and crunchy chicken base.
• ¼ cup hot honey: Delivers a sweet, fiery glaze.
• 2 tablespoons Everything Bagel Seasoning: Harmonizes the dish with a salty and aromatic finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Everything Spice Cheese Spread

1. Soften the cream cheese: Leave the cream cheese out for about 15 minutes before use. Combine with mayonnaise, red pepper, mustard, and salt in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.
2. Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese gently, then fold in the Everything Bagel Seasoning. Ensure even distribution for consistent flavor.
3. Serving suggestion: Serve immediately with your choice of chips, crackers, or a vegetable tray. For a unique twist, consider offering it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
4. Optional seasoning substitutes: If you can't find Everything Bagel Seasoning, mix your own using equal parts minced dry onion, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and a garlic-herb spice blend.

Everything Bread-Bites with Beer Cheese Fondue

1. Prepare the dough: Spread the pizza dough flat and brush lightly with beaten egg. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of seasoning over it. Cut the dough into 1-inch squares and place them on a lightly greased baking sheet. Let them rest for 30 minutes to rise.
2. Preheat and begin the fondue: Preheat your oven to 450°F. Simultaneously, preheat a large stockpot over medium heat. Melt 3 tablespoons butter and mix in the flour to form a roux; cook for 1 minute.
3. Combine the liquids: Gradually add the beer while whisking consistently to avoid lumps. Adjust the heat to medium-low and incorporate the half-and-half, red pepper, and the remaining seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors blend, stirring every so often.
4. Bake your bread bites: While the fondue simmers, bake the dough squares for around 5–7 minutes or until golden and puffed. Brush them with the reserved melted butter for added richness.
5. Finish the fondue: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, whisking until melted into a velvety sauce. Serve your creation with the everything bread-bites for dipping.

Everything Chicken with Hot Honey Glaze

1. Prep and bake the chicken: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly spray a baking sheet and arrange the chicken in a single layer, ensuring even cooking. Bake for 15 minutes.
2. Apply the glaze: Remove the chicken from the oven and carefully drizzle hot honey over it, tossing lightly to ensure each piece is coated.
3. Add the seasoning: Evenly sprinkle the Everything Bagel Seasoning over the chicken. Continue baking for an additional 4–5 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches a crispy texture and 165°F internally.
4. Serving suggestion: This spicy-sweet chicken pairs fantastically with cooling sides such as macaroni salad.

Tips for Troubleshooting

• Cream cheese too thick: Gradually incorporate a small amount of milk or half-and-half to achieve desired creaminess.
• Fondue lumps: Always add cheese slowly while constantly whisking. If lumps persist, strain through a sieve and return to heat.
• Dough sticks to pan: Use parchment paper for effective non-stick baking, or ensure pan is adequately greased with cooking spray.
• Chicken isn't crispy: Check oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure it’s at 425°F, and consider additional baking time.
• Too spicy: Incorporate a touch of dairy like a quick splash of cream to mellow the heat without watering down flavor.

Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe

• Side dishes: Pair the cheese spread with a fresh spinach salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Beverages: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager can beautifully complement the savory snack experience.
• Desserts: Conclude with lemon sorbet or almond biscotti for a sweet yet refreshing finale.
• Creative contrasts: For a surprising but delicious flavor contrast, serve the bread-bites alongside spicy olives.

How to Store Properly

• Refrigeration: Store the cheese spread and fondue in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Ensure they’re well-chilled to preserve texture.
• Freezing: While the cheese spread doesn't freeze well due to texture changes, the chicken and bread-bites can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw thoroughly before reheating.
• Reheating: For cheese dishes, gently reheat on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent separating. Bake chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F until just warmed through.
• Make-ahead tips: Prepare the dips a day before serving, allowing flavors to meld overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

• Can I use a different cheese in the fondue? Yes, Gruyere is a delightful substitute offering a nutty flavor. Adjust according to availability and personal preference.
• Could I substitute the beer in the fondue? Indeed, whole milk can replace beer for a non-alcoholic champion of creamy texture.
• Are there variations for the hot honey glaze? You can substitute sriracha honey or make your own by mixing honey with freshly chopped chilies for a personal touch.
• How do I create my Everything Bagel Seasoning? Combine ¼ teaspoon each of sesame and poppy seeds, minced dry onion, and a garlic-herb spice blend.