Hot Honey Feta Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe blends savory, smoky spices on juicy chicken with a luscious hot honey glaze that adds just the right kick of heat and sweetness. The creamy feta topping and fresh herbs brighten the dish, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests.

Ingredients

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

For the Chicken:

• 1½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Hot Honey Sauce:

• ¼ cup honey
• 1–2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, finely minced
• Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

For Garnish and Finishing:

• ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
• Fresh parsley or mint, chopped
• Lemon zest or juice
• Toasted sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Toss the chicken in the spice mixture until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and nicely browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, chili flakes, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and cayenne pepper if using. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Glaze the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the hot honey sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through and glaze the chicken.
5. Serve: Transfer chicken to a serving plate. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top and garnish with chopped parsley or mint, lemon zest or juice, and toasted sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 15 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 25 minutes

Variations

• Substitute chicken breasts or thighs based on preference.
• Use agave syrup or maple syrup instead of honey for a different sweetness.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra tang.
• Serve over rice, quinoa, or a green salad to make a complete meal.
• Incorporate chopped nuts like pistachios or almonds for added crunch.

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Reduce or omit chili flakes and cayenne pepper to lower the heat level.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Use thawed chicken for even cooking and best results.

What cheese can I substitute for feta?

Goat cheese or queso fresco are good alternatives.

Can I prepare the hot honey sauce ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before tossing with the chicken.

How do I keep chicken moist?

Cook chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and avoid overcooking.

Can I bake the chicken instead of cooking on the stove?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, then toss with the hot honey sauce.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, roasted or steamed vegetables pair well with this dish.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer the sauce a bit longer until it reaches desired consistency.

What sides go well with Hot Honey Feta Chicken?

Serve with couscous, rice, roasted potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

Hot Honey Feta Chicken combines smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors with creamy feta and fresh herbs for a vibrant, easy-to-make dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining, this recipe offers a delicious balance of heat and tanginess that will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

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