This easy hot honey feta chicken is a tasty dish that brings sweet and spicy together. The feta cheese melts beautifully, making each bite creamy and delicious.
You know it’s good when the chicken is juicy and the honey adds that perfect kick. I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all the yummy flavors!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you’re looking for a substitute, consider using chicken thighs for a juicier option. They can add a nice flavor too.
Feta Cheese: The crumbled feta gives a salty creaminess. If you don’t have feta, try goat cheese or even ricotta for a milder taste. They won’t have the same sharpness, but they’ll still be delicious!
Hot Honey: Hot honey adds that sweet heat element. If you can’t find it at the store, mix regular honey with chili flakes or sriracha for a similar effect. You can adjust the spice level to your liking!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings great aroma and flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work too—just reduce the amount to about 1/2 teaspoon.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about temperature and timing. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is juicy and tender:
- First, sear the chicken on medium-high heat to create a nice crust. This locks in moisture and flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy. Cover it loosely with foil.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time!
Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup hot honey (or honey mixed with chili flakes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious hot honey feta chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that it’s hot enough to cook the chicken evenly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them with salt and black pepper on both sides. This enhances the flavor so that each bite is delicious!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully lay the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown. This step creates a lovely crust and locks in moisture.
4. Add Garlic and Butter:
Now, add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet. Stir everything together as the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant. This will add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the chicken!
5. Drizzle Hot Honey:
Pour half of the hot honey over the chicken evenly. This will give it that sweet and spicy profile that makes this dish special.
6. Sprinkle Feta Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese generously over the chicken. The feta will melt and create a creamy topping as it cooks.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This will ensure it’s juicy and full of flavor.
8. Final Touch:
Once out of the oven, drizzle the remaining hot honey over the top of the chicken for an extra kick of sweetness.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Lastly, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. This not only adds color but also a fresh taste to the dish.
Enjoy your sweet, spicy, and creamy hot honey feta chicken! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, you can also use thighs or drumsticks. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer due to their higher fat content.
What Can I Substitute for Hot Honey?
If you can’t find hot honey, you can easily make your own by mixing regular honey with chili flakes or a bit of sriracha to taste. Start with a tablespoon of honey and add chili until you reach your desired spice level!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat to keep the chicken moist.
Can This Dish Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken with the hot honey and feta mixture a few hours in advance and then bake it right before serving. Just be mindful that the chicken should not marinate in the honey too long to avoid becoming overly sweet.
