Description

Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is the ultimate combo of spicy, sweet, and savory! Juicy chicken, golden crust, creamy feta, and a drizzle of hot honey make this easy dinner unforgettable.

Ingredients

Scale

For this delectable dish, gather the following ingredients:

Chicken and Marinade:

4 boneless chicken breasts (or thighs for a juicier option)
1 cup buttermilk (or use plain yogurt as a substitute)
1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)

Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour (substitute with almond flour for a gluten-free option)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
Salt and pepper (to taste)

Hot Honey Feta Sauce:

1 cup crumbled feta cheese (or goat cheese for a different flavor profile)
¼ cup honey (local honey gives the best flavor)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust depending on your heat preference)
2 tablespoons olive oil

Garnishes:

Fresh parsley (for a touch of color)
Lemon wedges (to squeeze over the top, enhancing flavor)

This list not only ensures a standout dish but provides alternatives that maintain the integrity of the recipe while catering to different dietary preferences.

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Chicken

Start by marinating the chicken in buttermilk and hot sauce. This combination not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses moisture and flavor. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes to an hour; if time allows, overnight is even better for enhanced tenderness.

Step 2: Preparing the Breading

In a shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs. This two-step breading process ensures a superior crunch. For an additional layer of flavor, consider seasoning the breadcrumbs with a hint of garlic powder or paprika.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the magic temperature for achieving crispy skin without drying out the chicken. While the oven heats, prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture first, then coat with the panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure adherence. Place the breaded chicken on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the breaded chicken to help it crisp up nicely in the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown.

Step 6: Make the Hot Honey Feta Sauce

While the chicken is baking, prepare the hot honey feta sauce. In a bowl, mix together crumbled feta, honey, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. This sauce not only adds a fascinating depth of flavor but creates a beautiful glaze once drizzled over the chicken.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the chicken is done baking, let it rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the hot honey feta sauce generously over the chicken and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. The colors alone will excite your senses, making it hard to resist diving into this dish.

Nutrition

Calories: 380
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g