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Hot honey infused feta chicken is one of those irresistible dinners that seems far fancier than the effort it takes. The richness of feta melts into every bite of juicy chicken while a drizzle of spicy honey brings a bold sweet heat. I keep coming back to it when I want something a bit special but unfussy enough for a weeknight or when friends drop by.
The first time I served this my family thought I had ordered out from a fancy bistro and now it is the number one request for birthday dinners.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Fresh and boneless is best for even cooking and tender results
- Hot honey: The sweet heat is key Seek out a good quality honey for best flavor or try local for seasonal complex notes
- Feta cheese: Crumbled feta melts into tangy creamy pockets Opt for sheep’s milk feta if you can find it
- Fresh thyme leaves: Adds earthy notes and a welcoming herbal aroma Use leaves that look vibrant and green
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors without overpowering Be sure your spice jar is fresh for a real punch
- Smoked paprika: This is essential for the bold smoky undertone Choose a deep red paprika for the richest taste
- Olive oil: Helps the spices adhere and adds moisture Go for extra virgin for the best flavor
- Salt: Brightens all the flavors Use a fine sea salt for even seasoning
- Black pepper: Lends depth with gentle heat Always opt for freshly cracked for the best aroma
How to Make It
- Prep the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels to ensure seasonings stick and browning happens cleanly without excess moisture
- Season Well:
- Rub each chicken breast with olive oil then coat generously with garlic powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper working it into all sides
- Sear for Color:
- Preheat an oven safe skillet over medium high with a splash of olive oil Sear the chicken breasts three to four minutes per side until golden brown and deeply caramelized on the outside but not fully cooked through
- Infuse With Hot Honey:
- Drizzle the hot honey evenly over the browned chicken allowing it to sizzle on the hot surface which helps the flavors start soaking in
- Roast to Finish:
- Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit Roast the chicken for fifteen to twenty minutes until juices run clear and the interior reaches one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Top With Feta and Thyme:
- Scatter crumbled feta cheese and fresh thyme over each breast in the last three minutes of bake time letting the residual heat melt the cheese into the chicken
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the chicken rest for five minutes before plating This keeps it juicy and allows the feta and honey to meld together at serving
Hot honey is my favorite ingredient here I first tasted it in a little Nashville restaurant and now it is always in my pantry. My daughter loves helping sprinkle on the feta and says it is her favorite part of cooking together.
Flavor Boosters
Press feta gently into the chicken while it is hot so it sticks. Add a squeeze of lemon over the final dish for an extra layer of brightness. Leftovers make an amazing pita wrap with cucumbers and a drizzle of plain yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over warm rice pilaf or lemony couscous for a heartier meal. Or plate next to crisp cucumber and tomato salad for a lighter option. A drizzle of extra hot honey at the table lets everyone control their own heat.
Creative Twists
Chicken thighs work beautifully if you prefer darker richer meat. You can swap hot honey for regular honey plus a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you want more herby brightness especially in summer add extra thyme or even fresh oregano.
This dish is a favorite for gatherings and the leftovers always disappear fast. Be sure to enjoy with extra hot honey for a customizable bold finish.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy. Adjust the cooking time, as thighs may require a bit longer to reach doneness.
- → What is hot honey and can I make it myself?
Hot honey is honey infused with chili or pepper flavors, offering sweet heat. You can make it by gently warming honey and adding red pepper flakes.
- → Does the feta cheese melt completely in this dish?
The feta will soften and warm, but typically retains some of its crumbled texture, adding a creamy, tangy bite on top of the chicken.
- → What can I serve alongside this chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, garlic potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the sweet and spicy flavors.
- → How spicy is the final dish?
The level of spiciness depends on the hot honey used. For milder heat, use less hot honey or choose a honey with gentle chili infusions.