This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken is a tasty twist on your usual chicken dish! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with creamy feta and a drizzle of sweet and spicy honey. It’s a flavor bomb!
I’m all about that sweet and spicy kick! Serve it with a simple salad for a meal that feels special without much fuss. You’ll definitely want to make this again! 🍗🍯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Feta Cheese: This dish shines with creamy feta! If you’re looking for a lower-fat alternative, try using ricotta cheese. For a dairy-free option, consider almond or cashew cheese.
Honey: The star of this recipe! You can swap it out with maple syrup if you want a different flavor profile. Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less, based on your taste.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep things easy, but thighs offer more flavor and moisture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use firm tofu instead—just make sure to press it to remove excess water first.
Chili Flakes: Customize the heat! You can replace red chili flakes with freshly diced jalapeños or use a milder option like bell pepper for a hint of sweetness without the spice.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Cooking chicken perfectly keeps it juicy and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
- Pat the chicken dry to remove moisture. This helps it brown better.
- Use medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook each side for 5-6 minutes. Check the internal temperature—165°F means it’s done.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
These steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your meal!
Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
For The Feta Base:
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled (plus extra for garnish)
For The Hot Honey Drizzle:
- 3 tbsp honey
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or parsley, chopped
- Extra feta cheese, crumbled
Optional Sides:
- Fresh spinach leaves
- Roasted grape tomatoes
- Toasted bread slices
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, plus an additional 12 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll spend around 22 minutes to enjoy a delightful meal packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Hot Honey:
In a small bowl, combine honey and red chili flakes. Gently warm this mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop, just until it’s warm. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Set it aside while you prepare the rest!
2. Seasoning the Chicken:
In another bowl, mix together smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Coat both sides evenly with the spice mixture, making sure to cover them well for maximum flavor.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a minute.
4. Preparing the Feta Base:
While the chicken cooks, grab your feta cheese. Use a fork to lightly mash it or give it a quick pulse in a food processor until it reaches a spreadable texture. This will serve as a delicious bed for your chicken!
5. Plating the Dish:
Spread a generous spoonful of the creamy feta on each plate. Place the rested chicken breasts on top of the feta spread, allowing that creamy base to complement the chicken beautifully.
6. Drizzling with Hot Honey:
Now comes the fun part! Drizzle the infused hot honey over both the chicken and feta. This will add that sweet and spicy kick we’re all looking for!
7. Adding the Finishing Touches:
Top your dish with extra crumbled feta, chopped fresh thyme or parsley, and a sprinkle of chili flakes if you want more heat. It’s all about those pretty garnishes!
8. Serving It Up:
Serve your stunning Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken with optional sides of fresh spinach leaves, roasted grape tomatoes, and some toasted bread slices for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While feta is the star here, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor. Just ensure they can spread well over the chicken!
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness of This Dish?
If you prefer a milder version, reduce the red chili flakes or leave them out entirely. For a spicier dish, you can add fresh chopped jalapeños or increase the chili flakes according to your heat preference!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken with the spice mix and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to add the feta and hot honey just before serving for the freshest flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat to warm through, adding a little drizzle of honey to freshen it up if desired!
