Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe

Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe

ByLila

I’ve always been a fan of dishes that pack a punch with minimal effort, and this hot honey feta chicken hits all the right spots. Growing up, I loved experimenting in the kitchen, blending sweet and spicy flavors to create something bold yet comforting. The first time I tried this recipe, I was hooked—the tangy feta, sticky hot honey, and juicy chicken thighs create a flavor explosion that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but comes together in under an hour.

What makes this dish special is its balance of textures and tastes. The crispy chicken skin, creamy feta, and that sweet-heat drizzle make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and endlessly customizable. I’m excited to share it with you, along with some tips to make it your own.

Hot Honey Feta Chicken

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1-2 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This ensures crispy skin. Season both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken skin-side down and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy. Flip and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Make the Hot Honey: In a small bowl, whisk together honey, hot sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Taste and adjust the heat level if needed.
  4. Add Feta: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Sprinkle crumbled feta over the chicken thighs, focusing on the fleshy parts. Spoon half the hot honey mixture over the chicken.
  5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  6. Finish and Serve: Drizzle the remaining hot honey over the chicken. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty kick.

Related Recipes:

Honey Sesame Chicken Recipe

Honey Garlic Salmon Recipe

Pro Cooking Tips

  • Crispy Skin Secret: Don’t skip patting the chicken dry—it’s key to that golden, crunchy skin.
  • Feta Swap: Use goat cheese for a tangier twist if feta’s not your thing.
  • Heat Control: Start with less hot sauce in the honey mix and add more to suit your spice tolerance.
  • Skillet Choice: A cast-iron skillet works best for even searing and oven transfer.

Variations

  • Grilled Version: Grill the chicken thighs instead of searing for a smoky flavor.
  • Vegetarian Twist: Swap chicken for thick portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks.
  • Herb Boost: Add rosemary or oregano to the seasoning for an aromatic touch.
  • Low-Carb Option: Serve with roasted zucchini or cauliflower rice instead of traditional sides.

Storage Suggestions

  • Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven to keep the skin crispy.
  • Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken (without the hot honey drizzle) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
  • Hot Honey: Store extra hot honey in a sealed jar at room temperature for up to a week.

How to Serve

Pair this hot honey feta chicken with simple sides to let the flavors shine. Try roasted potatoes, a fresh green salad, or grilled veggies. For a heartier meal, serve over quinoa or jasmine rice to soak up the sticky glaze. Don’t forget crusty bread to mop up every last drop of that hot honey sauce!

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Protein: 28g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 580mg

Note: Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but they may dry out faster. Use bone-in, skin-on breasts and adjust cooking time to reach 165°F internally.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your hot sauce label.

Can I make the hot honey ahead?
Definitely! Prepare it up to a week in advance and store it in a sealed jar at room temperature.

How spicy is this dish?
It’s customizable. Use mild hot sauce or less of it for a gentle kick, or go bold with extra heat.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap feta for a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip it entirely for a lighter dish.

Conclusion

This hot honey feta chicken is a game-changer—simple enough for a weeknight, yet bold enough to steal the show at any dinner table. The sweet-spicy glaze and creamy feta elevate humble chicken thighs into something truly special. Give it a try, play with the variations, and make it your own. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—drop a comment or share your twist!

Related Recipes