Ingredients
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients—fresh, quality chicken and authentic feta make all the difference. I always recommend using full-fat feta for that creamy richness but feel free to swap in a drier variety if that’s what you have. As for the hot honey, if you can find a local artisan version, it adds a lovely depth, but a simple drizzle of honey with a pinch of chili flakes works just as well. It’s these little details that make cooking feel like a meaningful experience rather than a chore.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/3 cup hot honey (or honey mixed with 1 teaspoon chili flakes)
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or oregano for garnish (optional)
- Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat helps caramelize the honey glaze and crisps the edges of the chicken beautifully.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides. This seasoning base is simple but adds a smoky warmth that complements the honey.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Don’t rush this step—getting a good sear locks in moisture.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan around the chicken and let it cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Drizzle the hot honey evenly over each chicken breast, then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. The feta will soften and slightly melt in the oven, creating a luscious topping.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). The honey will bubble and caramelize, and the feta will turn lightly golden.
- Once out of the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken if desired, and garnish with chopped parsley or oregano for a pop of color and freshness.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to lock in the juices. This step is one I learned the hard way early in my cooking days—resting makes all the difference!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
