Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a perfect balance of spicy and sweet, with juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy feta cheese and a drizzle of sticky hot honey. The contrasting flavors and textures make this dish pop with every bite.
I love how easy it is to make—you just bake the chicken, crumble the feta on top, and finish with that special hot honey drizzle. The heat from the honey gives just the right kick without being overpowering, while the feta adds a cool, tangy creaminess that everyone seems to enjoy.
My favorite way to serve this is alongside some simple roasted veggies or a fresh green salad. It’s such a satisfying meal that feels special but comes together quickly. Whenever I make it, it feels like a little celebration at the dinner table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts work best for quick cooking. If you prefer, thighs add more juiciness and flavor but take a bit longer.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a warm, smoky depth. You can swap for regular paprika if needed. Cayenne is optional for heat—adjust to your spice tolerance.
Hot honey: The star ingredient! Use store-bought hot honey or mix regular honey with red pepper flakes. You can control the spice level by adding more or less chili.
Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a creamy, tangy touch that contrasts nicely with the heat. Goat cheese works well too if you want a milder flavor.
Fresh parsley and lemon: Parsley adds a fresh herb note, and lemon wedges brighten the dish with acidity. Both balance the richness perfectly.
How Do You Get the Chicken Tender and Flavorful Without Drying It Out?
Here’s how to keep your chicken juicy while packing in flavor:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This helps the spices stick and creates a better sear.
- Sear the chicken on medium-high heat first to lock in juices—about 3-4 minutes each side.
- Finish cooking in the oven to ensure even, thorough cooking without overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature to avoid dryness.
- After baking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This lets juices redistribute, keeping the meat tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof skillet – I recommend this so you can sear and bake in the same pan for easy cleanup.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the chicken perfectly without overdoing it.
- Mixing bowls – for blending spices and mixing ingredients.
- Cooking spoon or tongs – for turning and removing the chicken safely.
- Lemon squeezer (optional) – makes it easy to get fresh lemon juice for serving.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers on the side for extra flavor and color.
- Replace feta with goat cheese for a creamier, tangier topping.
- Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder to boost the heat.
- Top with fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a different herb note.
Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons hot honey (honey infused with chili or honey with chili flakes)
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
- Mixed greens or arugula, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a tasty meal ready in roughly 30 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Chicken:
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Pat the chicken breasts dry, then rub the spice mix evenly over both sides of the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds delicious flavor.
3. Bake the Chicken:
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the chicken for 15-20 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through but still juicy.
4. Finish with Hot Honey and Feta:
Once out of the oven, drizzle the hot honey evenly over each chicken breast. Then sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top so it softens with the residual heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Hot Honey Feta Chicken with lemon wedges and a bed of mixed greens or arugula. The lemon adds freshness, and the greens balance the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to fully thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat them dry well to get a nice sear and prevent excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Less Spicy?
Simply omit the cayenne pepper and use a mild hot honey or regular honey without chili flakes. You can always add a small drizzle of spicy honey on the side for those who want extra heat.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can season and sear the chicken in advance, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before finishing the baking and adding the toppings. For best texture, add the hot honey and feta just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, and add a fresh drizzle of hot honey afterward to refresh the flavors.
