Ready in: 45 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
For a festive and flavorful dish, bake seasoned chicken breasts topped with a creamy hot honey infused feta mixture until golden and bubbly.
As the crispness of fall ushers in the holiday season in New York City, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the warm aromas indicative of Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. One dish that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of these festive celebrations is the Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken. This dish not only showcases the delightful balance of spicy and sweet but also brings a comforting richness that can elevate any holiday feast. Let's dive into the deliciousness together!
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfect balance of spicy and sweet, making it a crowd-pleaser during the holidays.
- Easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
- Rich and comforting flavors that elevate any holiday feast.
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides, from roasted vegetables to fluffy rice.
- Great for leftovers, ensuring you can enjoy the deliciousness for days to come.
Ingredients
Gather these simple and flavorful ingredients to create the Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken.
For the Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Feta Mixture
- 1 block of Greek feta in brine (about 8 ounces)
- ¼ cup hot honey (Mike's Hot Honey recommended)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on your spice tolerance)
How to Make Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and festive dish for your holiday gatherings.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). The warmth will envelop your dish as it roasts, creating a heavenly aroma that will have your guests wandering into the kitchen long before dinner is served.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Place the boneless chicken breasts on a cutting board and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. A good quality sea salt will really enhance the flavors of the dish.
Step 3: Make the Feta Mixture
In a bowl, crumble the Greek feta using a fork. Then mix in the hot honey, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes until you achieve a creamy consistency. The combination of the creamy feta and the sweet heat of honey is delicious!
Step 4: Arrange in a Baking Dish
Spread the seasoned chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish and dollop the feta mixture generously over each piece. Using a cast-iron skillet adds a lovely rustic touch to your presentation.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F). The feta will be slightly golden and bubbly, filling your kitchen with a nutty aroma.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a pop of color. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on your chicken to prevent dryness. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure it stays juicy.
- Neglecting the Brine: Don't rinse the feta before using; the brine enhances the flavor and moisture of the dish.
- Forgetting to Let It Rest: Letting the chicken rest after baking allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each bite succulent.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Experiment with Cheeses: If you're feeling adventurous, try substituting feta with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Add More Spice: Incorporate additional chili flakes or fresh sliced jalapeños into the honey mixture for an extra kick.
- Pair It Right: This savory chicken pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or a light red wine, making it versatile for any holiday table.
Variations
- Substitute Greek feta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Use maple syrup instead of hot honey for a milder sweetness.
- Add roasted red peppers or olives for extra flavor and texture.
How to Serve
- Serve it with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal.
- Pair with a side of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the feta mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the dish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven to maintain tenderness, or microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: This dish is not recommended for freezing, as it may affect the texture of the chicken and feta.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through my kitchen explorations, I discovered that the interplay of heat from the honey and the briny feta yields an irresistible flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Nothing beats the satisfaction of watching my loved ones enjoy a dish I've poured my heart into right at the holiday table.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 30g protein · 5g carbs · 20g fat
Recipe by:
Festive Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, crumble the Greek feta. Then mix in hot honey, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and red pepper flakes until creamy.
- Spread the seasoned chicken in a baking dish and dollop the feta mixture over each piece.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked (reaching 165°F) and the feta is golden and bubbly.
- Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the feta mixture and season the chicken in advance. Just store them separately in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This will save you time on the day of your gathering.
What is hot honey, and where can I find it?
Hot honey is a blend of honey infused with chili peppers, adding a sweet and spicy flavor. You can find it in specialty grocery stores or online.
Can I use a different type of cheese besides feta?
Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for different taste profiles.
