Introduction

Hot Honey Feta Chicken combines a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors for a simple yet impressive meal. This dish is quick to prepare and versatile enough for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With a drizzle of hot honey and a sprinkle of tangy feta, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

The image shows four pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken thighs placed on a white plate. Each chicken piece is glossy with a rich, dark brown sauce pooling beneath them. On top of each piece, there are small white crumbles of cheese and bright green chopped herbs sprinkled evenly, giving a fresh contrast to the warm colors of the chicken and sauce. The chicken pieces are arranged close to each other, filling the plate, with bits of herbs and sauce scattered around. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 pieces Chicken Thighs or Breasts (Can substitute with shrimp or tofu)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with avocado oil)
1 teaspoon Paprika (Use smoked paprika for more flavor)
1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can also be used)
1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Shallots can be used as a substitute)
1 teaspoon Cumin (Adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon Salt (Kosher salt preferred)
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground preferred)
1/2 cup Honey (Can substitute with maple syrup)
1 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Adjust to preference)
2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (Lemon juice can be used instead)
2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil (Coconut oil for dairy-free)
1 clove Garlic (Minced; powdered garlic can be used)
1 cup Feta Cheese (Can substitute with low-fat feta or goat cheese)
1/4 cup Fresh Parsley or Mint (Use any soft herbs available)
1 tablespoon Lemon Zest or Juice (Extra zest elevates flavor)
Toasted Sesame Seeds/Extra Chili Flakes (Optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken thighs or breasts with olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to an hour.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, searing each piece for about 5-6 minutes per thigh side or 4-5 minutes per breast side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, transfer the chicken to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 20-25 minutes.
Step 3: While chicken cooks, prepare the hot honey sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, chili flakes, butter or olive oil, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Once the chicken is cooked, drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the chicken pieces. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top while still hot to allow it to slightly melt.
Step 5: Garnish with chopped parsley or mint, adding toasted sesame seeds or extra chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately with fluffy rice or roasted vegetables, spooning extra sauce over the sides.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, use coconut oil instead of butter and substitute feta cheese with a non-dairy alternative or omit it entirely.
Try smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the honey’s sweetness.
Adjust chili flakes based on your heat preference, or use fresh chopped chili for a fresher bite.
Marinating the chicken longer, up to 2 hours, will intensify the flavors.
Substitute chicken with shrimp or firm tofu for a quick and tasty alternative.

Storage

Store leftover Hot Honey Feta Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to maintain the sauce’s texture. For best results, add fresh herbs and a drizzle of honey after reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows five glazed chicken thighs arranged on a white plate, each piece coated in a shiny, caramel-colored sauce with a slightly sticky texture. On top of each chicken thigh are small dollops of white, crumbly cheese, possibly feta, sprinkled with a light dusting of red paprika. Fresh green herbs, roughly chopped, are scattered both on the chicken and around the plate, adding a vibrant contrast. The sauce pools slightly around the chicken, emphasizing its glistening surface. The white plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to stay juicier, but breasts are a leaner option and cook slightly faster.

Is the honey sauce very spicy?

The heat level depends on the amount of chili flakes you use. You can adjust the spice to your liking by adding more or less chili flakes, or even omitting them for a milder sauce.