Save to Pinterest This Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying high-protein dinner that brings together the best of Mediterranean and American cuisines. Tender chicken breasts are seared to perfection, topped with salty crumbled feta, and finished with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze, all in under 40 minutes.
Save to Pinterest Whether you are looking for a new weeknight staple or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers. The contrast between the caramelized chicken and the melted cheese creates a gourmet experience with very little effort.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each, pounded to 1-inch thickness if needed)
- Marinade & Seasoning: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Topping: 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled (preferably from a block), 2 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade), 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat chicken breasts completely dry with paper towels. If needed, pound to an even 1-inch thickness for even cooking.
- Step 2
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the mixture thoroughly over all sides of the chicken breasts.
- Step 3
- Heat an oven-safe skillet (10-12 inch, cast iron or stainless steel) over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes. Sear the chicken breasts for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid moving them during searing.
- Step 4
- Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Step 5
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the feta is melted and slightly golden.
- Step 6
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Drizzle hot honey over the chicken while still hot. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best results, use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For deeper flavor, you can let the chicken marinate in the olive oil and spice mixture for 30 minutes before you begin cooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts. If you don't have store-bought hot honey, you can easily make your own by mixing 2 parts honey with 1 part hot sauce, or by stirring red pepper flakes into regular honey.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish the finished chicken with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This dish pairs excellently with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-balanced, Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Save to Pinterest Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Hot Honey Feta Chicken reheats beautifully, making it a great option for high-protein meal prep.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work beautifully in this dish. They may need slightly less oven time since thighs cook faster than breasts—aim for 12-15 minutes in the oven or until reaching 165°F internally.
- → What if I can't find hot honey?
You can easily make your own by mixing 2 parts honey with 1 part hot sauce, or stir red pepper flakes into regular honey and let it infuse for 15-20 minutes. Both methods give you that signature sweet-spicy finish.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For best results, cook it fresh and drizzle with hot honey just before serving—the feta melts better and the honey glaze stays vibrant when added at the end.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken?
Roasted vegetables, Mediterranean salads, or roasted potatoes complement the flavors beautifully. Or serve over rice, quinoa, or with warm pita bread to soak up the sweet-spicy juices.
- → How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes or in the microwave at 50% power to prevent the feta from becoming rubbery.