Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that's all about the perfect balance between spicy heat, sweet honey, and tangy, creamy feta cheese. The chicken gets a…
Tip: save now, cook later.Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s all about the perfect balance between spicy heat, sweet honey, and tangy, creamy feta cheese. The chicken gets a lovely crispy skin, then is topped with melted feta that adds a rich and salty kick. The drizzle of hot honey brings everything together with just the right amount of sweetness and spice.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick but special. The combo of spicy and sweet always surprises how well it works with the sharpness of the feta. I usually serve it with some roasted veggies or a fresh green salad on the side to keep it light and let the chicken shine. Plus, it’s so easy to throw together on a weeknight when I don’t want to spend too long in the kitchen.
One of my favorite things about Hot Honey Feta Chicken is how it looks when the honey glaze and feta cheese bubble up and get golden during baking. It feels like a little treat every time. I’ve found that a little extra drizzle of honey on top right before serving takes it to the next level. Definitely a crowd-pleaser whenever I make it, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it just as much!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or tenders work well here. Tenders cook faster and are great if you want a quicker dinner. You can also use thighs for juicier meat but adjust cooking time.
Honey: The honey adds sweetness and helps balance the heat. If you don’t have honey, maple syrup is a fine substitute, though it will be a bit less floral in flavor.
Hot Sauce: Choose your favorite hot sauce to control the spice level. For no heat, swap with a mild chili sauce or omit entirely for a sweeter honey glaze.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that salty, tangy creaminess. If you prefer less salt or don’t have feta, goat cheese or ricotta salata can work well too.
Flour or Cornstarch: Coating the chicken with flour or cornstarch helps get a crispy crust. Cornstarch gives a lighter, extra-crispy coating, while flour is more traditional.
How Do I Get the Chicken Crispy and Well-Glazed?
To get a nicely crispy chicken with a glossy hot honey glaze, follow these steps:
- Pat chicken dry and coat with a thin layer of flour or cornstarch. This creates a crispy outside when fried.
- Heat oil well before adding chicken. Medium-high heat locks in the crust and keeps chicken juicy.
- Cook chicken undisturbed for 4-5 minutes per side to form a golden crust. Avoid flipping too often.
- After cooking, make the sauce in the same pan to pick up all the flavorful browned bits.
- Once sauce thickens slightly, add veggies and return chicken. Spoon sauce generously over chicken and sprinkle feta on top.
- Cover briefly so feta softens and flavors meld, but don’t overcook or cheese will harden.
This method ensures your chicken is flavorful, with crispy edges and that perfect balance of spicy honey and creamy feta. I like to add a bit more honey at the end for a shiny finish and extra sweetness contrast.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large nonstick or cast-iron skillet – great for browning chicken evenly and making the sauce right in the same pan.
- Tongs – help you flip the chicken safely without breaking the crust.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate honey, hot sauce, and flour amounts.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – perfect for stirring garlic and sauce without scratching your pan.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, parsley, and optional veggies.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or salmon fillets to change up the protein while keeping the sweet and spicy flavor.
- Add crumbled blue cheese instead of feta for a stronger, tangier taste that melts nicely over the chicken.
- Mix in roasted red peppers or olives for an extra burst of flavor and Mediterranean vibe.
- Include fresh basil or mint leaves as garnish to add a fresh, bright note that balances the heat.
Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenders
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Sauce and Toppings:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a touch of tang)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- 1 small zucchini, sliced (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in roughly 25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Lightly coat each piece with flour or cornstarch, shaking off any extra powder.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce and Sauté Veggies:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Stir in the honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend all the flavors. Add the cherry tomatoes and zucchini slices, cooking them for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender and juicy.
4. Combine Chicken with Sauce and Feta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Spoon the hot honey sauce generously over each piece, then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. Cover the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes so the feta melts slightly and all the flavors mingle together.
5. Finish and Serve:
Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the chicken for a pop of color and freshness. Serve the dish warm. If you like it sweeter, drizzle a little extra honey on top before enjoying.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve that crispy coating.
Can I Make Hot Honey Feta Chicken Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to keep the chicken crispy without gluten.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
What’s a Good Side Dish to Serve With This Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the spicy and sweet flavors.