It is 6pm and your family is hungry. You need a meal that is fast and filling. This Hot Honey Feta Chicken is the answer to your busy night.
This dish brings a cozy warmth to your table. It is perfect for those crisp fall evenings. You get sweet, spicy, and salty flavors in every bite. Your family will think you spent hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You will love how this recipe uses simple pantry staples. It delivers a high-protein punch without any stress. The prep is minimal and the cleanup is even easier. It fits perfectly into your busy fall schedule.
This meal is also very budget-friendly for large families. You can easily double the recipe for leftovers. It is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making this chicken is incredibly straightforward and fast. You simply sear the meat and whisk a quick sauce. The glaze thickens right in the pan for perfect results every time. Even beginner cooks can master this glossy finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are likely already in your kitchen right now.
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup wildflower honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Directions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Whisk honey, vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
- Reduce heat to low and pour honey mixture over the chicken.
- Simmer for 2 minutes while spooning glaze over the chicken.
- Top with crumbled feta and fresh parsley before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this chicken warm over a bed of fluffy quinoa. It also pairs beautifully with roasted green beans or broccoli. The creamy feta melts slightly into the spicy honey sauce.
For a complete meal, add a fresh side salad. Pack any leftovers into glass containers for easy weekday lunches. It is a nutritious win for your meal prep routine.
Storage & Reheating
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh and delicious for four days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet with a splash of water. This keeps the meat tender and juicy for your lunch.
Tips for Best Results
- Pat the chicken very dry to get a golden crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Whisk your sauce while the chicken sears to save time.
- Add the feta immediately so it softens from the heat.
- Use wildflower honey for a deep and floral sweetness.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Swap honey for maple syrup for a woody fall flavor.
- Use chicken thighs for a richer and juicier result.
- Add a squeeze of lime for a bright citrus kick.
- Try goat cheese if you prefer a creamier texture.
Common Questions
Is this dish too spicy for kids?
You can easily control the spice by reducing the red pepper. Use just a pinch for a mild family-friendly version. The honey balances the heat beautifully for most palates.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the honey mixture a day early. Store it at room temperature in a sealed jar. This makes your weeknight dinner even faster to assemble.
I hope this warm and flavorful meal brings a little joy to your table tonight. It is the perfect way to reset after a long day. Enjoy every sweet and spicy bite!
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup wildflower honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken in the skillet and sear for 6 to 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- While the chicken cooks, whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl.
- Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low and pour the honey mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
- Simmer the sauce for 2 minutes, spooning the glaze over the chicken repeatedly until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and immediately top each chicken breast with crumbled feta cheese.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
