Hot Honey Feta Chicken: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion Recipe

Introduction

Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines spicy honey glaze with creamy feta cheese for an unforgettable meal experience. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe bursts with sweet heat and tangy freshness.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4-6 breasts)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1-2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot, Sriracha, or your favorite) – adjust to your spice preference
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 lemon, juiced
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Extra red pepper flakes (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a resealable bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with this spice blend.
3. Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Step 4: Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet without overcrowding. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
5. Step 5: Remove chicken from the skillet and place on a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5-10 minutes to retain juices.
6. Step 6: In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Step 7: Heat over medium, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the honey thins slightly and flavors meld.
8. Step 8: Taste the hot honey; adjust hot sauce or red pepper flakes as desired for preferred heat level.
9. Step 9: In a small bowl, mix crumbled feta, chopped parsley, chopped chives, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and lemon juice until combined.
10. Step 10: Adjust seasoning of the feta mixture, adding salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice to taste.
11. Step 11: Slice rested chicken breasts against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices.
12. Step 12: Arrange chicken slices on a serving platter or individual plates. Drizzle generously with the hot honey glaze.
13. Step 13: Spoon the feta topping evenly over the glazed chicken.
14. Step 14: Garnish with fresh basil leaves, extra red pepper flakes, and lemon wedges if desired.
15. Step 15: Serve immediately. Enjoy on its own or with sides like rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

• For milder heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes in the spice mix and glaze.
• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful option; adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Try adding a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture contrast in the feta topping.
• Use fresh lemon zest in the feta mixture for an extra burst of citrus aroma.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through. Drizzle with fresh hot honey and add feta topping again before serving to keep textures fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before pounding and seasoning for even cooking and best texture.

What can I serve with Hot Honey Feta Chicken?

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the rich and spicy flavors.

Hot Honey Feta Chicken: The Ultimate Flavor Explosion Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 61 reviews

• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

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Description

Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender, pan-seared chicken breasts coated in a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, topped with a creamy, tangy feta herb mixture. This recipe combines a perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and freshness for an irresistible weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken and Seasoning

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4–6 breasts)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Hot Honey Sauce

• 1/4 cup honey
• 1–2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot, Sriracha, or your favorite), adjust to taste
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Feta Herb Topping

• 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 lemon, juiced

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves
• Extra red pepper flakes
• Lemon wedges

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or inside a resealable bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch to ensure uniform cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Generously season both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with this spice mixture.
3. Heat the Skillet: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
4. Sear the Chicken: Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
5. Rest the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and transfer to a plate. Tent loosely with foil and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes; this helps retain juices and enhances tenderness.
6. Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes if using. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally and cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture slightly thins and the flavors meld.
7. Adjust Sauce Seasoning: Taste the hot honey sauce and add more hot sauce or red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat or balance according to your preference.
8. Prepare the Feta Topping: In a small bowl, combine crumbled feta, chopped parsley, chopped chives, 1 tablespoon olive oil, and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Mix gently until well blended.
9. Season the Feta Topping: Taste and adjust the feta topping by adding a pinch of salt, pepper, or extra lemon juice for more tang if needed.
10. Slice the Chicken: Once rested, slice the chicken breasts against the grain into approximately 1/2-inch thick slices for tenderness and ease of eating.
11. Assemble the Dish: Arrange the sliced chicken on a serving plate or individual plates. Generously drizzle the hot honey sauce over the slices, coating them evenly.
12. Add Feta Topping: Spoon the feta herb mixture over the honey-glazed chicken slices, distributing it so each piece is topped.
13. Garnish: Decorate the dish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of extra red pepper flakes for heat, and lemon wedges for added zest.
14. Serve: Serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, roasted vegetables, or a crisp fresh salad.

Notes

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Adjust the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your preferred spice level.
• Resting the chicken after cooking keeps it juicy and tender.
• You can substitute the chicken breasts with thighs if desired, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
• For a dairy-free version, omit the feta topping or substitute with a vegan cheese alternative.
• Serve with sides like roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Hot Honey Feta Chicken, Spicy Honey Chicken, Feta Topped Chicken, Sweet and Spicy Chicken, Skillet Chicken Recipe, Easy Dinner, Flavorful Chicken