Name: Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese; ¼ cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade); 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavor Profile: The contrast between spicy hot honey and tangy feta creates a unique and addictive taste.
Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it approachable for any home cook.
Versatile: Can be served with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Elegant Presentation: The crumbled feta and glossy honey glaze give this dish a gourmet look with minimal effort.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade by infusing honey with chili flakes)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Add Garlic: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add minced garlic to the pan and sauté until fragrant.
Drizzle Hot Honey: Remove the pan from heat and drizzle the hot honey evenly over the chicken breasts.
Top with Feta: Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously on top of the chicken.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added brightness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chili flakes to the honey or by using a milder honey glaze.
Cheese Swap: Substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta salata for a different texture and flavor.
Marinated Chicken: Marinate the chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic for 30 minutes beforehand for extra tenderness.
Grilled Option: Cook the chicken on a grill instead of the skillet for a smoky flavor.
Add Vegetables: Toss in cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers in the skillet during the last minutes of cooking for a colorful addition.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to preserve the texture, or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
Note: The feta may soften and the honey glaze may thicken when refrigerated, so allow the dish to come to room temperature before serving for best flavor.

FAQs

What is hot honey?

Hot honey is honey infused with chili peppers or chili flakes, combining sweetness with a spicy kick.

Can I make my own hot honey?

Yes, gently heat honey with red chili flakes for 10-15 minutes, then strain if desired. Let it cool before use.

Is feta cheese safe to cook with?

Yes, feta softens and adds creaminess when warmed but holds its texture well in this dish.

What sides pair well with Hot Honey Feta Chicken?

Serve with roasted vegetables, steamed rice, couscous, or a fresh green salad.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely, bone-in or boneless thighs will work and add extra juiciness and flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the amount and type of chili flakes used in the hot honey. Adjust to your preference.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to add hot honey and feta just before serving.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

Regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used as substitutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu or cauliflower steaks, use a plant-based feta alternative, and substitute hot honey with a mix of agave syrup and chili flakes.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a simple yet impressive dish that marries sweet, spicy, and salty flavors in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress with its beautiful balance and easy preparation. Enjoy this vibrant dish alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying and flavorful meal.