This Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a fun twist on dinner! The chicken is coated in crunchy goodness and topped with sweet, spicy, and tangy honey feta.
Honestly, I can’t resist that sweet and spicy flavor. It’s like a flavor party on your plate! Best of all, it’s easy to make, so you can quickly impress your family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: For a juicy and tender result, use large chicken breasts and pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook evenly. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs create that perfect crunch! If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs work too, but they won’t be as crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great alternative if you need them.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds creaminess and tang. If you’re not a fan, you could use goat cheese or even ricotta for a different taste. These options will still work great with the honey glaze!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and stickiness to the glaze. If you’re looking for a different sweetener, agave syrup or maple syrup can substitute nicely, just adjust the quantity based on taste.
How Do You Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
It’s essential to get that crispy coating on your chicken. Here’s how to ensure that crunch:
- Start with dry chicken: Pat the surface of the chicken breasts with paper towels to remove moisture before breading. This helps the coating stick better.
- Use three-step breading: Dredge in flour first to provide a base, dip in egg to help the breadcrumbs stick, and finally coat thoroughly with panko.
- Fry at the right temperature: Make sure your oil is hot (around 350°F/175°C). If it’s not hot enough, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crisp.
Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large chicken breasts, pounded to even thickness
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil, for frying
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to heat preference)
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, cubed or crumbled
- Fresh arugula or mixed greens, for serving
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes total. You can expect about 15 minutes for prep work and around 15 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and delicious, perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Make sure to cover them evenly for the best flavor!
2. Prepare the Breading Stations:
Get ready to coat your chicken by setting up three shallow dishes. Fill one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last one with panko breadcrumbs. This will make the breading process super easy!
3. Bread the Chicken:
Take each seasoned chicken breast and dredge it in the flour first, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the egg, followed by a thorough coating of panko breadcrumbs. This process will give your chicken that crispy exterior!
4. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough for frying, so give it a few moments!
5. Fry the Chicken:
Carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and the center reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
6. Make the Hot Honey Glaze:
In a small saucepan, warm the honey over low heat and mix in the red chili flakes. Stir until it’s combined and fragrant, but be careful not to let it boil!
7. Assemble the Dish:
On a plate, create a bed of fresh arugula or greens. Place the fried chicken on top and scatter halved cherry tomatoes around if you like.
8. Drizzle the Glaze:
Pour that delicious hot honey glaze generously over each piece of chicken! This is where the magic happens.
9. Add the Feta:
Finally, sprinkle the cubed or crumbled feta cheese on top of the chicken, letting its creaminess meld with the hot honey glaze.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken immediately! Allow the warmth of the chicken to soften the feta slightly and enjoy the sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors!
Pair it with some mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
FAQ for Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier result and can add more flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through compared to chicken breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for more heat, you can increase the amount of red chili flakes in the honey glaze. Consider adding some chopped fresh jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the honey to kick it up a notch!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can gently warm them in the oven or microwave, making sure not to toughen the chicken. Adding a splash of water will help keep it moist when reheating.
Can I Make the Hot Honey Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the hot honey glaze ahead of time! Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Reheat it slightly before drizzling over the chicken when you’re ready to serve.
