This salad is packed with texture and flavor, thanks to the crispy everything bagel chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy dressing. It’s a protein-rich, low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction. Easy to customize, filling, and fresh — it’s the kind of salad you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or cutlets
Everything bagel seasoning
Panko breadcrumbs
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Mixed salad greens (such as arugula, spinach, romaine)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Cucumber, sliced
Red onion, thinly sliced
Avocado, sliced
Your favorite creamy dressing (ranch, Caesar, or homemade)
Optional: shredded cheese, pickled onions, or croutons for added texture
Directions
Prep the chicken: Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed. Set up a dredging station with flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and everything bagel seasoning.
Coat and cook: Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, and coat well in the panko-everything bagel mixture. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, layer mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, and avocado. Add sliced crispy chicken on top.
Dress and serve: Drizzle with your favorite creamy dressing and toss gently, or serve the dressing on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
Air fryer version: Cook the coated chicken in the air fryer at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix for a kick.
Make it a wrap: Wrap the salad and chicken in a large tortilla or lettuce leaves for a portable meal.
Use grilled chicken: Skip the breading for a lighter, grilled version.
Add a boiled egg: Boost the protein and texture with a soft- or hard-boiled egg.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken in a skillet or oven to keep it crispy. The salad ingredients are best enjoyed fresh, and the dressing should be added just before serving to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
What is everything bagel seasoning made of?
It typically includes sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt.
Can I use store-bought breaded chicken?
Yes, if you’re short on time, cooked breaded chicken tenders can be used instead.
Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, store the chicken and salad separately and combine just before eating for best results.
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
What kind of dressing goes best?
Creamy dressings like ranch, Caesar, or even a garlicky yogurt-based dressing pair wonderfully.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, just ensure your dressing and breadcrumbs are dairy-free.
What greens work best?
A mix of arugula, romaine, and spinach adds flavor and texture, but any fresh greens will work.
How do I keep the chicken crispy?
Cool it on a wire rack after cooking, and don’t cover it tightly before serving.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and offer more flavor and tenderness.
Is everything bagel seasoning salty?
It can be, so consider reducing additional salt in your recipe if using a lot of the seasoning.
Conclusion
Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Salad is a flavor-packed, protein-rich dish that brings together the irresistible crunch of seasoned chicken with fresh, vibrant veggies and a creamy dressing. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a quick dinner, or a meal prep staple, this salad delivers on taste, texture, and convenience every time.
Crispy Everything Bagel Chicken Salad is a hearty, flavor-packed salad featuring juicy, pan-fried chicken coated in everything bagel seasoning and panko, served over fresh greens and veggies with a creamy dressing. Perfect for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
Pound chicken breasts to even thickness if needed. Set up a dredging station with separate bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and everything bagel seasoning.
Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat with the panko-everything bagel mix, pressing to adhere.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to rest, then slice.
In a large bowl, layer mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
Top with sliced crispy chicken. Drizzle with creamy dressing or serve dressing on the side.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
Air fry chicken at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.Make it spicy by adding cayenne to the breading.Store salad and chicken separately to keep it fresh and crispy.Try it as a wrap or lettuce wrap for a handheld version.Bake chicken instead of frying for a lighter option (400°F for 20–25 minutes).
