Name: Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp cumin; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp lemon juice; ¼ cup honey; 1 –2 tsp chili flakes; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice; 1 tbsp butter or olive oil; 1 garlic clove minced; Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper; ½ cup crumbled feta cheese; Fresh parsley or mint chopped; Lemon zest or juice; Toasted sesame seeds or crushed red pepper flakes optional

This Hot Honey Feta Chicken recipe combines juicy chicken thighs or breasts with a perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
The hot honey sauce adds a rich heat that’s balanced with the creaminess of crumbled feta cheese.
It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special dinner, and it pairs beautifully with sides like roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or flatbreads.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is a wonderful combination of sweet and heat!
The hot honey sauce is the star of the show, infusing the chicken with spicy and sweet notes that are perfectly balanced by the crumble of feta cheese.
The lemon zest adds a hint of freshness, and the chicken turns out incredibly tender, whether you sear it on the stovetop or bake it in the oven.
It’s a simple, yet indulgent meal, packed with bold flavors, and sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts provide a lean, juicy protein base that perfectly absorbs the flavor from the spices and sauce.
Hot Honey Sauce: The combination of honey, chili flakes, and apple cider vinegar creates the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy.
Feta Cheese: The crumbled feta adds creaminess and tanginess, cutting through the heat of the sauce.
Lemon: Lemon juice and lemon zest bring brightness to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Herbs and Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and cumin bring warmth and depth to the chicken, complementing the hot honey sauce.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Marinate for Extra Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10–15 minutes (or up to an hour) to let the spices penetrate and flavor the meat.
Adjust Spice Level: You can control the heat of the hot honey sauce by adjusting the chili flakes and adding a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.
Serve with the Right Side: This dish pairs beautifully with sides like roasted potatoes, couscous, or rice pilaf to balance the heat and make a well-rounded meal.
Sear or Bake the Chicken: Both methods work wonderfully. Searing on the stovetop creates a crispy crust, while baking is hands-off and great for meal prepping.

How to Make Hot Honey Feta Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken dry and place in a bowl or on a tray.
Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then rub in paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
Let marinate briefly for 10–15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 1 hour.

Step 2: Sear or Bake the Chicken

Stovetop Method:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil.
Sear chicken on each side for 5–6 minutes (thighs) or 4–5 minutes (breasts), until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.

Oven-Baked Method:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange the seasoned chicken in a baking dish and drizzle with a bit of oil.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Hot Honey Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine honey, chili flakes, butter/olive oil, garlic, and apple cider vinegar.
Heat gently over low-medium heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust heat with more chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer more spice.

Step 4: Assemble and Finish

Pour the hot honey sauce over the cooked chicken.
Generously sprinkle crumbled feta on top.
Let the feta soften slightly from the heat of the chicken for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley or mint, lemon zest, and optional sesame seeds or chili flakes.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the chicken with a generous spoon of the hot honey sauce and melted feta.
Serve with side dishes like roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or flatbreads for a complete meal.

Serving Ideas

Serve this Hot Honey Feta Chicken with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a comforting dinner.
It also pairs beautifully with a side of rice pilaf or buttered couscous to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad or grilled veggies.

Storage

Store any leftover Hot Honey Feta Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. The hot honey sauce can be reheated separately if needed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but they will need slightly less cooking time than thighs. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the hot honey sauce in advance?
Yes, the hot honey sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just reheat before serving.

Can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the honey to your taste. If you prefer a spicier sauce, increase the chili flakes or cayenne pepper.

Final Thoughts

This Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a sweet, spicy, and savory dish that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
The tender chicken, creamy feta, and hot honey sauce are a perfect match, delivering bold flavors with every bite.
Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a delicious meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.