This crispy hot honey feta chicken is a tasty mix of flavors! Juicy chicken is topped with creamy feta cheese and a drizzle of sweet, spicy honey that makes it irresistible.
It’s super easy to make, and your kitchen will smell amazing. I love serving it with a side of roasted veggies. You’re going to want seconds, trust me! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey cutlets instead.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives the chicken a wonderful crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be quite as crispy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a different texture.
Hot Honey: This is the star of the dish! If hot honey is hard to find, you can mix regular honey with hot sauce or chili flakes to create your own version. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or ricotta—the flavor will change a bit, but it will still be yummy!
How Do You Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
Getting that extra crunch is all about the breading technique. Follow these tips for the crispiest chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the breading stick better.
- Make sure to shake off excess flour—this prevents clumping and helps the egg adhere.
- Allow the breaded chicken to sit for about 5 minutes before cooking to help the coating stick.
- Cook in hot oil! This ensures the breadcrumbs crisp up quickly.
Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra crispiness)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade by mixing honey with chili flakes or hot sauce)
- Cherry tomatoes, for serving
- Arugula or fresh greens, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 10-12 minutes to cook, so in total, you’ll need about 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delightful enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better. Sprinkle salt and pepper generously on both sides of the chicken for great flavor!
2. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Take three shallow bowls. Place the all-purpose flour in one bowl, crack the egg into the second bowl and beat it lightly, and in the third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. This makes a wonderful crunchy coating!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten egg, allowing the extra egg to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko mixture until it’s well coated on both sides.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the breaded chicken breasts. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Drizzle with Hot Honey:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. While it’s still warm, drizzle a generous amount of hot honey over the chicken. This adds that amazing sweet and spicy flavor!
6. Add the Feta and Serve:
Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese over the top of the hot honey chicken. Serve immediately with a side of fresh arugula and cherry tomatoes for a bright, refreshing crunch. Enjoy your meal!
Dig in and enjoy your Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken—it’s the perfect blend of crunch, creaminess, sweetness, and a spicy kick!
FAQ for Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add even more flavor to the dish. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through.
How Do I Make Hot Honey at Home?
Making hot honey at home is simple! Just mix regular honey with some chili flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to taste. Start with about a tablespoon of chili flakes per cup of honey, and adjust according to your heat preference!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken up to the breading step. Store the breaded chicken in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent sticking. When ready to cook, bring them to room temperature before frying for an even cook.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispiness. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some of their crunch.
