This Easy Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a fun twist on dinner! It’s juicy chicken topped with creamy feta cheese and drizzled in sweet and spicy honey. Yum!
I love how the crispy pick is a hit every time—I mean, who can resist that? Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal that’ll impress without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless skinless chicken breasts are ideal here, but thighs could work too. They tend to be juicier! If you’re on a budget, you can buy frozen chicken, just make sure to thaw it properly before cooking.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko gives that delightful crunch. If you can’t find it, regular breadcrumbs can be a substitute, but they won’t be as crispy. You can even crush some crackers for a fun twist!
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta provides a tangy bite. If you want to switch it up, goat cheese works beautifully or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Hot Honey: This sweet and spicy drizzle is the star. If you don’t have hot honey, mix some honey with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to achieve a similar flavor. Adjust it to your spice level!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
To achieve that perfect crispy coating on your chicken, follow these tips:
- Ensure the chicken is pounded to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly.
- Double-dip! After the egg wash, return the chicken to the breadcrumbs for a thicker crust.
- Let the breaded chicken sit for a few minutes before frying. This helps the coating stick better.
- Fry them in hot oil for a deep crispy texture, then finish baking in the oven—this step keeps them juicy inside!
Easy Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Coating:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Dipping:
- 2 large eggs
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
Optional Sides:
- Cherry tomatoes, for serving
- Fresh arugula or mixed greens, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. Total time is about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light greasing to prevent sticking.
2. Flatten the Chicken:
To ensure even cooking, flatten the chicken breasts slightly. Place them between two pieces of plastic wrap, then gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are an even thickness. This helps them cook through nicely!
3. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful and crunchy coating for your chicken!
4. Beat the Eggs:
In another bowl, beat the eggs together until smooth. This will help the breadcrumbs stick well.
5. Bread the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and first dip it into the beaten eggs, letting the excess egg drip off. Then, press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. You want a nice thick layer!
6. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, transfer the chicken to your prepared baking sheet. Bake it in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes to ensure it’s fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
8. Add the Hot Honey:
Once baked, take the chicken out of the oven and immediately spoon the hot honey evenly over the top while it’s still warm. The honey will get nice and gooey!
9. Top with Feta:
Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the hot honey. The warmth of the chicken will soften the feta, making it even more delicious!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crispy hot honey feta chicken immediately with cherry tomatoes and a fresh side of arugula or mixed greens for a nice crunch. Enjoy this tasty meal!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your deliciously crispy, spicy-sweet hot honey feta chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They are juicier and have more flavor than chicken breasts, so feel free to use them for this recipe—just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to turn up the heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture or use a spicier hot sauce in place of the regular hot honey. You can also drizzle some extra hot honey over the chicken before serving for an extra kick!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, ensuring it stays crispy!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it in breadcrumbs ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re prepared to serve, simply sear and bake it! This helps maintain that delicious crispy texture.
