Hot Honey Feta Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Hot Honey Feta Chicken is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy. The hot honey sauce brings a kick of heat, while the creamy feta sauce adds a tangy richness that perfectly complements the crispy, juicy chicken. The combination of flavors makes every bite irresistible, while the simplicity of the recipe ensures it’s easy to prepare on a busy weeknight. This dish will leave you craving more!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• ⅓ cup honey

• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 tablespoon butter

For the Feta Sauce:

• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled

• ½ cup Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnishing:

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)

• Lemon wedges for serving

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

Directions

1. Preheat and Prep the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder to ensure a flavorful, crispy crust.

2. Sear the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken and sear for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. This helps lock in the juices and gives the chicken a nice crispy edge. Remove from heat but keep the chicken in the skillet.

3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the honey, red pepper flakes, apple cider vinegar, and butter. Stir until the butter melts and the honey becomes thin and pourable. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to develop the heat, then remove from heat and set aside.

4. Prepare the Feta Sauce: In a bowl, mix the crumbled feta, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dried oregano, and olive oil until smooth and creamy. If needed, add a tablespoon of water or milk to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

5. Bake the Chicken: Pour half of the hot honey sauce over the seared chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

6. Add the Feta Sauce: Remove the chicken from the oven and immediately dollop the feta sauce over each piece. The warmth of the chicken will slightly melt the feta, creating a rich and creamy texture.

7. Drizzle with More Hot Honey: Drizzle the remaining hot honey sauce over the feta-covered chicken to add a final touch of sweet and spicy goodness.

8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and additional red pepper flakes (if desired) for extra color and heat. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing, citrusy finish.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer juicier meat, swap chicken breasts for boneless, skinless chicken thighs.

• Extra Heat: If you like things spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper to both the hot honey and feta sauces.

• Herb Substitutes: Instead of oregano, try using thyme or rosemary for a slightly different flavor.

• Dairy-Free: To make this dish dairy-free, swap the feta for a dairy-free cheese and use coconut yogurt in the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave, covering it with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work perfectly in this recipe.

2. How can I make the dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes to both the hot honey sauce and the feta sauce, or use a spicier chili pepper.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the chicken, sauces, and seasonings ahead of time. Cook the chicken and assemble everything just before serving for the best results.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor, though the taste will vary.

5. Can I make this recipe without honey?

If you’re looking for a sugar-free alternative, you can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave nectar, although the flavor will change slightly.

6. Can I make this recipe on the stovetop only?

Yes, you can cook the chicken completely on the stovetop. Sear it in the pan until golden brown, then pour the hot honey sauce over it and cook for a few more minutes, adding the feta sauce towards the end.

7. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave as needed.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the chicken after cooking, but it’s best to freeze the chicken and sauces separately. It will keep for up to 2 months.

10. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Feta Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy, making it a deliciously satisfying meal. The seared chicken, hot honey sauce, and creamy feta topping will make this dish a new favorite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or for a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

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