Crafting Recipes with Heart! ❤️

Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

By Sarah October 16, 2025

Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

Oh, friend, do I have a treat for you today! I’m absolutely bursting with excitement to share one of my new favorite recipes: Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken. This dish is a true game-changer, marrying crispy chicken with the irresistible tang of melted feta and a sticky, sweet-spicy hot honey drizzle. It’s a flavor explosion that feels fancy but comes together with heartwarming simplicity. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner with this delightful creation!

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

You’re going to adore this recipe, I promise! It delivers a symphony of textures and tastes that dance on your palate. Imagine:

  • Crispy Perfection: Golden-brown chicken with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
  • Melty, Tangy Feta: The crumbled feta transforms under the grill, becoming buttery soft and slightly crisp, adding a salty counterpoint.
  • Sweet Heat Sensation: That homemade hot honey delivers a wonderful sticky sweetness followed by a gentle kick that’s utterly addictive.
  • Effortless Elegance: This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken feels like a gourmet meal from a fancy restaurant, yet you made it in your own cozy kitchen with ease.

What Makes This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken Recipe Shine? (Ingredient Deep Dive)

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in creating a truly unforgettable meal. Let’s dive into what makes this Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken so special. We rely on Panko breadcrumbs for that superior, airy crispiness you just can’t get from regular breadcrumbs. They create a beautiful golden crust that holds up to the hot honey.

The feta cheese isn’t just a garnish; it’s a crucial flavor component. When grilled, it softens and crisps slightly, bringing a salty, tangy depth that perfectly balances the sweetness of the honey, reminiscent of a delicious pumpkin whipped feta dip. For the hot honey itself, the choice of hot sauce matters. A milder sauce like Frank’s or Cholula provides a pleasant warmth, while a spicier option can really amp up the heat. Don’t be shy about experimenting!

Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken
Honey Infused Feta Chicken

Crafting Your Homemade Hot Honey

Making your own hot honey is incredibly simple and allows for complete customization. Just combine honey, your favorite hot sauce, and a pinch of chili flakes in a bowl. A quick warm-up in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or a gentle simmer on the stove, helps everything meld beautifully. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce and chili flakes. For a smokier flavor, try a dash of smoked paprika. If you’re in a hurry, don’t hesitate to use a store-bought hot honey – it’s a fantastic shortcut!

Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken
Sarah

Amazing Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

This dish is a true game-changer, marrying crispy chicken with the irresistible tang of melted feta and a sticky, sweet-spicy hot honey drizzle. It’s a flavor explosion that feels fancy but comes together with heartwarming simplicity, perfect for elevating your weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 512

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup Honey 110g
  • 1 1/2 tsp Hot Sauce (I like Frank’s or Cholula)
  • 3/4 tsp Chilli Flakes
  • 2 x Chicken Breasts 250g/9oz
  • 2 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 35 g Plain Flour 1/4 cup
  • 2 Eggs (beaten)
  • 65 g Panko Breadcrumbs 1 cup
  • 6-8 tbsp Veg Oil (as needed)
  • 200 g Feta 7oz, (crumbled)

Equipment

  • bowl
  • microwave
  • small pot
  • 3 large shallow dishes
  • large tray
  • large pan
  • wire rack
  • grill

Method
 

  1. Combine the honey, hot sauce and chilli flakes in a bowl and warm in the microwave (20 seconds or so). Stir then leave to cool. You can also do this on the stove in a small pot (just bring to a simmer then remove and cool). You can easily adjust the heat with chilli flakes/hot sauce if desired.
  2. Horizontally slice the chicken breasts right through the centre to create 4 even-sized breasts. In a small pot or bowl combine the paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne and black pepper.
  3. Line up 3 large shallow dishes and place a large tray at the end. The first bowl is flour + half of the seasoning mix, the second is beaten egg and the 3rd is the Panko with the rest of the seasoning. One by one take the chicken and dredge through the flour, into the egg, then the breadcrumbs and finish by placing on the tray. Make sure you thoroughly coat the chicken at each stage (namely the breadcrumbs).
  4. Add enough oil to coat the base of a large pan and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot enough that a breadcrumb rapidly sizzles, carefully place in the chicken (if you can’t fit 4 pieces then work in 2 batches, top up the oil in between if needed). Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until deep golden and crispy on the outside and white/piping hot through the centre. Place on a wire rack above the tray.
  5. Add the crumbled feta, covering as much of the chicken as possible, then place under the grill on high until it starts turning golden (it should be buttery soft and a little crisp on top).
  6. Serve with your preferred amount of hot honey drizzled over and enjoy (tightly store leftover honey in the fridge).

Notes

  • For Crispy Chicken: Ensure your oil is hot before frying, don’t overcrowd the pan, and place cooked chicken on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
  • Make-Ahead: Hot honey can be made up to a week ahead. Chicken can be breaded a few hours before frying and refrigerated.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep it crispy (avoid the microwave).
  • Variations:
    • Vegetarian: Use halloumi or eggplant instead of chicken.
    • Cheese: Goat cheese or mozzarella can replace feta.
    • Gluten-Free: Use GF-certified flour and panko.
    • Low-Carb: Use almond flour or crushed pork rinds for breading.

Ingredients for Your Crispy Feta Chicken Feast

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful dish:

  • 1/3 cup / 110g Honey
  • 1 1/2 tsp Hot Sauce (I like Frank’s or Cholula)
  • 3/4 tsp Chilli Flakes
  • 2x 250g/9oz Chicken Breasts
  • 2 tsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp EACH: Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Dried Oregano, Black Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • 35g / 1/4 cup Plain Flour
  • 2 Eggs, (beaten)
  • 65g / 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • Veg Oil, (as needed (6-8 tbsp))
  • 200g / 7oz Feta, (crumbled)

Step-by-Step: How to Make Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

Let’s get cooking! This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken comes together easily with these straightforward steps.

  1. Combine the honey, hot sauce and chilli flakes in a bowl and warm in the microwave (20 seconds or so). Stir then leave to cool. You can also do this on the stove in a small pot (just bring to a simmer then remove and cool). You can easily adjust the heat with chilli flakes/hot sauce if desired.
  2. Horizontally slice the chicken breasts right through the centre to create 4 even-sized breasts. In a small pot or bowl combine the paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne and black pepper.
  3. Line up 3 large shallow dishes and place a large tray at the end. The first bowl is flour + half of the seasoning mix, the second is beaten egg and the 3rd is the Panko with the rest of the seasoning. One by one take the chicken and dredge through the flour, into the egg, then the breadcrumbs and finish by placing on the tray. Make sure you thoroughly coat the chicken at each stage (namely the breadcrumbs). This is key for maximum crispiness!
  4. Add enough oil to coat the base of a large pan and place it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot enough that a breadcrumb rapidly sizzles, carefully place in the chicken (if you can’t fit 4 pieces then work in 2 batches, top up the oil in between if needed). Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until deep golden and crispy on the outside and white/piping hot through the centre. Place on a wire rack above the tray.
  5. Add the crumbled feta, covering as much of the chicken as possible, then place under the grill on high until it starts turning golden (it should be buttery soft and a little crisp on top).
  6. Serve with your preferred amount of hot honey drizzled over and enjoy (tightly store leftover honey in the fridge).

Achieving Peak Crispiness (My Secret Tips!)

Want truly crispy chicken every single time? I’ve got a few secrets up my sleeve to share with you! First, ensure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken, but not smoking. A breadcrumb should sizzle immediately when dropped in. Second, don’t overcrowd the pan! This lowers the oil temperature and steams the chicken instead of frying it, making it less crispy.

If you need to cook in batches, do it. Placing the cooked chicken on a wire rack allows air to circulate, keeping it crispy while it rests and preventing a soggy bottom. For an even more epic crunch, you can try a double dredge: flour, egg, panko, then back into the egg and panko again for a thicker, extra-crispy coating.

Flavor Adventures: Delicious Variations & Substitutions

Variation/SubstitutionGuidance
Chicken ThighsFor boneless, skinless chicken thighs, flatten them slightly to an even thickness. Pan-fry for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden, as thighs are thicker and take a bit longer. They will stay incredibly juicy!
Cheese SwapsCrumbled goat cheese offers a milder tang and creaminess, while shredded mozzarella provides a fantastic, gooey melt. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese would add a salty, nutty bite that’s simply delightful. Each cheese brings its own unique character to the dish.
Gluten-FreeEasily adapt this recipe by swapping in a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs. They’ll deliver the same beautiful crispiness and flavor, ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty meal without worry.
Lower CarbTo reduce carbs, consider using almond flour or finely crushed pork rinds as your breading alternative. Serve your crispy chicken alongside low-carb sides like zesty cauliflower rice, spiralized zucchini noodles, or a fresh green salad instead of traditional starches.
Vegetarian OptionFor a delicious vegetarian spin, thick slices of halloumi cheese can be breaded and pan-fried until golden and crispy. Alternatively, use hearty eggplant cutlets, which crisp up beautifully and absorb the hot honey flavors.
Hot Sauce CustomizationExperiment with different hot sauces to create unique flavor profiles for your hot honey. Sriracha adds a garlicky heat, Tabasco brings a sharp vinegar tang, and gochujang offers a unique fermented chili kick with a touch of sweetness. Each choice dramatically alters the overall taste, letting you tailor the sauce to your exact preference.
Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken
Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

Serving Your Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken is so versatile! Serve it simply alongside a crisp green salad or some creamy mashed potatoes. For a vibrant meal, create a grain bowl with fluffy quinoa or rice, cheesy root vegetable gratin, roasted seasonal veggies like broccoli or asparagus, and a generous drizzle of extra hot honey. It’s also fantastic tucked into warm pita bread with shredded lettuce and a cool dollop of Greek yogurt. Pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a light lager, or a refreshing sparkling lemonade to complement the sweet and spicy notes.

Storage & Reheating Tips (Keep it Crispy!)

If you have any delicious leftovers, store the cooked Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain that wonderful crispiness when reheating, avoid the microwave! Your best bet is an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, until heated through and crispy again. This is perfect for delicious meal prep!

My Final Thoughts & Your Next Culinary Adventure

You’ve got this, my friend! This Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken recipe is truly a celebration of flavor and texture, and I know you’ll absolutely love making and eating it. It’s a dish that proves delicious, impactful meals don’t have to be complicated. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Please share your experience in the comments below, ask any questions you might have, or tag me on social media with #TheMealCraft. Happy cooking!

Troubleshooting Your Hot Honey Infused Feta Chicken

Cooking can sometimes throw us a curveball, but don’t worry, I’m here to help!

  1. My chicken isn’t crispy enough. What went wrong?

    Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the chicken – a small breadcrumb should sizzle immediately. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this lowers the oil temperature and prevents crisping.

  2. My hot honey is too mild/too spicy. How can I fix it?

    For a milder sauce, whisk in a little more plain honey to dilute the heat. If it’s not spicy enough, add a few more drops of hot sauce or a pinch of extra chili flakes, stirring well to combine.

  3. Can I prep this recipe ahead of time for busy weeknights?

    Absolutely! You can make the hot honey sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the fridge. You can also bread the chicken a few hours ahead of time; just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry.

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Hi there!

I’m Sarah, the home cook behind The Meal Craft! I’m a 44-year-old mom, wife, and self-taught food lover based just outside Asheville, North Carolina. What started as a way to feed my family on busy nights has grown into a passion for creating recipes that are simple, comforting, and beginner-friendly.

On The Meal Craft, you’ll find everything from weeknight lifesavers to cozy weekend meals, designed for real kitchens and real schedules. My goal is to help you cook with confidence, even if you’re just getting started

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