Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a wonderful mix of spicy, sweet, and creamy all on one plate. Tender chicken breasts get a drizzle of hot honey that adds a gentle kick and just enough sweetness, while the crumbled feta cheese brings a cool, tangy touch that balances everything perfectly.
I love making this dish because it feels fancy but is actually super simple to prepare. The hot honey glaze is my favorite part – it’s like a little surprise of flavor with each bite. I often add a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top to brighten the dish and make it feel fresh and homey.
I usually serve this chicken with a side of roasted veggies or a simple salad to keep things light and healthy. It’s a dinner that everyone asks me to make again because the combination of heat from the honey and creaminess from the feta is just so satisfying. Plus, it looks beautiful on the plate, which always makes me smile before we dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Skinless, boneless chicken breasts cook quickly and stay tender if not overcooked. You can substitute with chicken thighs for juicier meat, but adjust baking time slightly.
Hot honey: This is the star for that sweet heat combo. If you can’t find hot honey, mix regular honey with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to your taste.
Feta cheese: Feta adds tanginess and creaminess here. If you want something milder, goat cheese works well too. Avoid cheeses that melt too much to keep the crumbly texture.
Fresh herbs (sage or parsley): These bring brightness and an herbal note. Parsley is safer for most tastes, while sage offers earthiness. Fresh is best, but dried herbs are fine if needed.
How Do You Get the Perfect Balance of Sweet and Heat?
The hot honey glaze is where the magic happens, and handling it right is key to this dish’s flavor.
- First, sear the chicken well in a hot pan for a nice golden crust that locks in juices.
- After searing, layering the garlic, chili flakes, and honey lets the flavors build up slowly without burning the honey.
- Baking at 375°F lets the chicken cook through gently while the honey glaze thickens and caramelizes onto the chicken.
- Don’t forget to let the chicken rest after baking—this keeps it juicy and allows the sauce to settle.
With these steps, you get a sweet, spicy, tangy combo with juicy chicken every time. The feta cools things down and adds a creamy pop you won’t want to skip.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet – I recommend using a cast-iron skillet because it heats evenly and can go straight from stove to oven without switching pans.
- Meat thermometer – helps you check that the chicken is cooked to the perfect 165°F (74°C) and remains juicy.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for precise honey, garlic, and chili flakes portions, ensuring consistent flavor.
- Spatula or tongs – to turn and remove the chicken safely without tearing the meat.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Switch chicken breasts for thighs—thighs stay juicier and add richness to the dish.
- Add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving for extra brightness.
- Toss in sliced cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers during baking for extra color and flavor.
- For extra herbs, sprinkle chopped basil or oregano on top before serving—they add a fresh, aromatic touch.
How to Make Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup hot honey (honey infused with chili flakes or your preferred hot honey)
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon fresh sage or fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of roughly 30 minutes. It’s a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any weeknight meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts well on both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Add Flavors and Bake:
Take the skillet off the heat. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the chicken, then drizzle the hot honey evenly on top. Sprinkle the red chili flakes over each piece, and crumble the feta cheese across the chicken breasts.
Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (reach an internal temp of 165°F or 74°C).
4. Rest and Garnish:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy. Garnish with fresh sage or parsley if you like for a fresh touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the hot honey feta chicken warm, spooning some of the delicious pan sauce over the top. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a crisp green salad.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and the best texture.
How Can I Make This Dish Less Spicy?
Reduce or omit the red chili flakes and use a milder honey instead of hot honey. You can also add extra feta cheese to balance out any heat.
Can I Prepare Hot Honey Feta Chicken Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season and sear the chicken ahead, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, add the honey, feta, and chili flakes, then bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to retain moisture and flavor.
