This Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a delicious treat! Juicy chicken is topped with creamy feta cheese and drizzled with sweet and spicy honey. It’s a perfect dish for any meal!
This recipe is simple enough for a busy day! I love how the flavors come together quickly. Serve it with rice or veggies, and you’ll be all set for a tasty dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or if thighs are on sale!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a unique tanginess. If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese is a great substitute! It has a similar creaminess but a different flavor profile.
Honey: The star of the show! For a twist, you could swap honey for maple syrup for a different sweetness or use agave syrup if you’re vegan.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add the spice! Adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance. If you want a milder dish, reduce or leave them out, or even try paprika for a smoky flavor.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
Keeping chicken moist is key! Here are some tips to get juicy chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning; moisture can hinder browning.
- Sear the chicken on medium-high heat until golden brown. This step locks in moisture!
- Don’t overcook; check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after baking. This helps redistribute the juices.
Using these techniques will help you serve perfectly juicy chicken every time!
Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken recipe will take about 25-30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking, followed by 12-15 minutes in the oven. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that it’s hot and ready when your chicken is seared and ready to go in!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help them brown better. Next, season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.
4. Make the Hot Honey Mix:
While the chicken is searing, grab a small bowl and mix together the honey, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. This blend brings the sweet and spicy flavor!
5. Add the Flavorings:
After searing, reduce the heat to medium-low. Spoon some of the honey-garlic mixture over each chicken breast, ensuring that they’re well-coated.
6. Sprinkle on the Feta:
Now, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. The cheese will melt and add a creamy tanginess to the dish as it cooks.
7. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C on a meat thermometer).
8. Finish and Garnish:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the oven. Drizzle any remaining hot honey mixture over the top for extra flavor. If you like, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for a nice touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is ready to serve! Pair it with some rice, veggies, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness; thighs may need an extra few minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese is a great alternative that will still provide a creamy texture. For a dairy-free version, try using a dairy-free cheese made from nuts that can melt well.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or leave them out entirely. Alternatively, for extra heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the honey mixture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
