This Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is topped with creamy feta and drizzled with sweet, spicy honey. It’s a perfect mix of flavors that keeps you coming back for more!
Getting that crispy golden crust is the fun part! 😄 I like to serve it with a side of veggies or a simple salad. It’s an easy way to impress friends at dinner without spending all day in the kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for even cooking and easy eating. If you’re looking for something different, you could substitute with chicken thighs for richer flavor, or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the chicken an extra crunch. If you can’t find panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture won’t be the same. You can also use crushed cornflakes or even crushed crackers for a unique twist!
Feta Cheese: The crumbled feta adds a tangy touch. If you’re not a fan, goat cheese or ricotta can be great alternatives. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based feta or leave it out completely.
Hot Sauce: I often use sriracha for its flavor and heat. If you want it milder, go with a sweet chili sauce; if you want it spicier, try a chipotle sauce. Adjust according to your taste!
How Do I Get the Chicken Extra Crispy?
For that perfect crispy texture, follow these steps closely:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning. This removes moisture for better browning.
- Make sure you coat the chicken thoroughly in flour, egg, and panko. Each layer plays a role in the crunch.
- Heat the oil until it’s hot enough (but not smoking) before adding the chicken. This ensures immediate sizzling!
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary; this helps maintain the oil’s temperature and avoids steaming the chicken.
Letting the chicken rest on a paper towel helps remove excess oil, making it crispier when served!
Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1-2 tsp hot sauce (such as sriracha or your favorite chili sauce)
- 3 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s great for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Set Up Dredging Stations:
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a little more salt and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs with water. Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third shallow bowl for coating.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and dredge it in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken evenly with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere them.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken breasts in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
5. Make the Hot Honey Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the honey and hot sauce, mixing well until they are completely blended. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less hot sauce according to your preference!
6. Assemble the Dish:
Place the crispy chicken onto a serving platter. Drizzle generously with the hot honey sauce and then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top to add a delightful tang.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, you can optionally sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve your Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken immediately and enjoy the wonderful blend of flavors!
This dish is sure to be a hit with its perfect balance of sweetness, heat, and savory goodness. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. The best way is to transfer them to the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can submerge them in cold water in a sealed bag until thawed.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! To make this dish gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. These changes will keep the crispy texture intact while accommodating dietary needs.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness, warming at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make the Hot Honey Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! The hot honey sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a little stir before drizzling over your chicken to refresh the flavors!
