This Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a game-changer! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with creamy feta and drizzled with sweet and spicy honey. It’s a perfect blend of flavors!
I love how simple it is to make—just bake and enjoy! Serve it with some veggies or rice, and you’ve got a tasty meal that feels special without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you need a substitute, try skinless thighs for added moisture or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. If you can’t find feta, goat cheese works well, or even cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. Just be aware that the flavor will differ a bit.
Hot Honey: The sweet and spicy honey uplifts the dish. You can make your own by mixing honey with chili flakes or use a regular honey if you prefer less heat. You could also try sriracha or a dash of hot sauce mixed into regular honey for a hot twist!
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for roasting, but any cooking oil you have on hand, like canola or avocado oil, can be used too. I have a preference for good olive oil for its flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting juicy chicken can be tricky, but here’s the secret. Start with good quality chicken, and don’t rush the cooking. Here’s how to keep your chicken tender:
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature before baking—400°F is ideal.
- Season the chicken just before cooking, so it has time to absorb flavors without getting too salty.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches 165°F; this ensures it’s safe to eat and keeps it juicy.
- If you’re unsure, let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking. This allows juices to redistribute, making it extra tender.
Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 3 tablespoons hot honey (store-bought or homemade by mixing honey with chili flakes)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30-35 minutes altogether. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and marinating the chicken, and then about 20-25 minutes baking it in the oven. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This sets the perfect temperature for cooking the chicken evenly and achieving a nice golden finish.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will season your chicken beautifully!
3. Coat and Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and lightly coat them with olive oil. This helps the spices stick while adding moisture. Now, rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chicken breast.
4. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish, making sure they have a bit of space between them to cook properly.
5. Add the Feta Cheese:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the tops of the chicken breasts. The feta will melt slightly during baking and become creamy.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink inside.
7. Drizzle with Hot Honey:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the dish from the oven and drizzle the hot honey generously over each chicken breast while they’re still warm. This adds a sweet and spicy kick!
8. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal.
Enjoy the delightful combination of spicy, sweet, and creamy flavors in this easy-to-make chicken dish!
FAQ for Easy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra moisture and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Lower in Calories?
For a lighter version, consider using less feta cheese or opting for reduced-fat feta. You can also replace hot honey with a drizzle of regular honey mixed with a few chili flakes for flavor without all the sugar. Additionally, pairing with more vegetables instead of starches can help lower calorie intake!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken with the spice rub and feta the night before. Just cover and refrigerate. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What Are the Best Sides to Serve with This Chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, quinoa, or a refreshing salad. For a hearty option, serve it over rice or pasta to soak up that delicious hot honey sauce!
