Description
This Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken features golden, crunchy breaded chicken breasts or thighs coated with a spicy and sweet hot honey glaze, topped with creamy crumbled feta and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This exciting flavor combination balances heat, sweetness, and tangy feta, making for a delicious and addictive meal that pairs perfectly with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
Chicken & Coating:
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Hot Honey Glaze:
- ⅓ cup honey
- 1 Tbsp hot sauce (Frank’s, Sriracha, or similar)
- ¾ tsp red pepper flakes
Finishing Touch:
- 7 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 1 Tbsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Glaze: In a small heat-safe bowl, combine honey, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. Warm gently in the microwave or on low heat on the stovetop until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: If chicken breasts are thick, slice them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if using.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This will make the breading process smooth and organized.
- Bread the Chicken: First, dredge each chicken piece in the flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing the crumbs lightly to adhere well.
- Cook the Chicken Crispy: Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken pieces in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer and Add Feta & Glaze: Move cooked chicken to a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet. Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese evenly over the hot chicken pieces. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared hot honey glaze over each piece.
- Broil for Melting: For an added burst of flavor and a slightly melted texture, place the chicken under the broiler for about 1 minute, just until the feta softens but does not brown excessively. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve & Garnish: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately as the hot honey glaze may set quickly. This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, salad, roasted vegetables, or fries for a complete meal.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes in the glaze.
- Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will result in juicier meat.
- Press panko crumbs gently but firmly to ensure they stick well to the chicken for maximum crispiness.
- If you do not have a broiler, skipping the broiling step is fine; just add the feta and glaze and serve.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet during frying to maintain a crispy crust.
- The hot honey glaze can be stored in the fridge for up to a week and warmed before use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American