Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a bright, flavorful dish that brings together the spicy sweetness of hot honey with the creamy, salty goodness of feta cheese. Tender chicken breasts or thighs get a beautiful glaze from the honey, while the feta crumbles add a tangy kick that makes every bite exciting. It’s a perfect blend of sweet heat and rich creaminess that’s both simple and satisfying.
I love making this dish when I want something a little special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The combination of hot honey and feta is one of those unexpected pairings that just works so well. I usually drizzle extra hot honey on top after baking for a little bright pop of sweetness and heat. It’s a family favorite because it’s simple to prepare but feels like a treat.
This chicken is wonderful served alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted veggies for a balanced meal. I also enjoy it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices. Whenever I make it, the house fills with an amazing aroma, and everyone is eager to dig in. If you’re looking for an easy, tasty weeknight dinner that stands out, this recipe is a great go-to!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts or thighs both work. Thighs stay juicier, but breasts are leaner. Pick what you prefer or have on hand.
Hot Honey: This is honey with a spicy kick. If you can’t find it, mix regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce to taste. Adjust heat to your liking.
Feta Cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy touch. You can substitute goat cheese or queso fresco if you want a milder flavor or need a dairy swap.
Garlic and Chili Flakes: These bring extra punch. Feel free to reduce chili flakes if you prefer less heat.
Fresh Herbs: Basil, oregano, or sage are great. They add freshness and balance the richness of the dish. Use whatever herb you love or have available.
How Do You Get the Chicken Both Crispy and Tender?
Getting a nice golden sear on the chicken before baking helps lock in juices and build flavor.
- Heat your skillet and oil until shimmering before adding chicken.
- Sear chicken on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side without moving it. This creates a golden crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan to keep the heat steady.
- After searing, add the hot honey, garlic, and feta, then finish cooking in the oven. Baking lets the chicken cook evenly and melts the cheese.
Rest the chicken a few minutes after baking to let juices redistribute. This simple sear-then-bake method gives juicy, flavorful results every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I recommend a cast-iron or stainless-steel skillet because it heats evenly and goes straight into the oven.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check when the chicken reaches 165°F so it’s perfectly cooked and juicy.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – use these to turn the chicken and stir ingredients without splashing.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate amounts of honey, feta, and spices to keep flavors balanced.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pork chops or shrimp for different proteins—great for variety and quick cooking.
- Mix in chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano with the feta for extra aroma and freshness.
- Add sliced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes before baking for extra color and flavor.
- Use feta cheese mixed with cream cheese for a richer, creamier topping that melts better.
Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup hot honey (honey infused with chili flakes or store-bought hot honey)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as torn basil, oregano, or sage leaves)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook in the oven. In total, you should allow around 30 minutes from start to finish, including resting time for the chicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken breasts well with salt and black pepper on both sides.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Add Flavorings:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the minced garlic and red chili flakes evenly over the chicken breasts. Then, drizzle the hot honey over the chicken and sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly on top.
4. Bake the Chicken:
Place the skillet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
5. Finish and Serve:
Take the skillet out of the oven and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs like torn basil or sage for a fresh touch. Serve warm, spooning any of the delicious honey and feta sauce from the pan over the chicken.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken overnight in the fridge or use a cold water bath for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry to ensure a good sear.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To make it less spicy, reduce or omit the red chili flakes and use mild honey instead of hot honey. If you want it spicier, add extra chili flakes or drizzle more hot honey on top before serving.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and sear the chicken ahead, then refrigerate for up to 1 day before baking. Just bring the chicken to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, spooning pan sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.
