This Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a bright and zesty dish that’s sure to please. Juicy chicken is drizzled with hot honey and topped with creamy feta cheese for a burst of flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe. If you’re looking for a substitute, chicken thighs can be a great alternative as they’re juicier and won’t dry out as easily.
Hot Honey: Hot honey adds great flavor. If you don’t have any, you can make your own by mixing regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the spiciness to your preference!
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy creaminess. If you’re not a fan or need a dairy-free option, try using goat cheese or even a vegan cheese alternative for a similar texture.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do. You can also try adding a bit of cayenne for extra heat!
Why is Searing the Chicken Important?
Searing the chicken is crucial for building flavor and color. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high until it’s hot—this helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Add oil to the pan before adding chicken. This not only creates a barrier but also prevents sticking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give the chicken space so it sears instead of steams.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, just until golden brown. This seals in juices and enhances flavor.
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making a delicious meal! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/3 cup hot honey (choose your favorite spicy honey)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken on the stovetop, then 10-12 minutes baking it in the oven. It’s a quick and easy dinner that brings lots of flavor without taking all evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and quickly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Next, take your chicken breasts and season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Make sure to rub the spices into the meat so they stick well. This step adds a wonderful flavor to the chicken!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. This step creates a nice crust and locks in the juices.
4. Add Garlic:
After searing, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
5. Drizzle with Hot Honey:
Now it’s time to drizzle that delicious hot honey over each chicken breast. Make sure to cover them evenly for a sweet and spicy flavor that marries perfectly with the other ingredients.
6. Add Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously on top of the chicken breasts. The feta will melt beautifully and add creaminess to every bite.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The chicken will be tender and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
8. Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve the chicken warm, with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing if you like!
Enjoy your flavorful and easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken!
FAQ for Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great for this recipe and can add even more flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
What If I Don’t Have Hot Honey?
No problem! You can easily make your own by mixing regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper to taste. This way, you can control the level of spiciness!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts until heated.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, season it, and even sear it ahead of time. Just cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply drizzle with hot honey and feta and bake as directed!
