Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
Introduction
Looking for a perfect combination of crispy, savory, and sweet heat in just one dish? The Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken takes your taste buds on a journey of vibrant flavors. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty dish that’s easy to make and irresistible to eat. A blend of crispy-coated chicken paired with a sweet and slightly spicy hot honey glaze, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless (about 4 pieces)
– Feta cheese: Crumbled (½ cup)
– Hot honey: Store-bought or homemade (⅓ cup)
– Flour: All-purpose (½ cup)
– Eggs: Large (2, lightly beaten)
– Panko breadcrumbs: (1 cup)
– Garlic powder: (1 tsp)
– Paprika: (1 tsp)
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
– Olive oil: for frying
Prep Time
The preparation for this Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is quick and straightforward. In just 20 minutes, you can have all your ingredients prepped and ready to cook.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time:
15 to 20 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken
Total Time:
Approximately 40 minutes, including prep time
Yield:
Serves 4
Steps to Prepare Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken
1. Start by prepping the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts if necessary to ensure even thickness. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Arrange three dishes for the coating process: one with flour, another with beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko, feta cheese crumbles, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shake off the excess, coat in egg, and then evenly press into the panko-feta mixture to fully coat.
4. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the breaded chicken pieces into the pan and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drizzle the hot honey generously over the crispy chicken once it’s cooked. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for that perfect sweet and spicy kick.
6. Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes such as a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light rice pilaf.
This flavorful recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. The texture of the crispy breading complements the creamy feta and the drizzle of hot honey adds a perfect finishing touch. Whether for dinner with family or a small gathering with friends, this dish is guaranteed to impress!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2: Make the Bread Coating
1. In one bowl, whisk together the eggs until smooth.
2. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, panko, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
1. Dip each chicken breast into the whisked eggs, making sure it is fully coated.
2. Then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
3. Repeat for all chicken breasts and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
1. Spray the breaded chicken breasts lightly with cooking spray or olive oil for crispier results.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until the chicken is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 5: Prepare the Hot Honey Sauce
1. While the chicken is baking, combine honey, hot sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Stir continuously until the mixture is well blended and warmed, then remove from the heat.
Step 6: Serve the Crispy Hot Honey Chicken
1. Drizzle the hot honey sauce generously over the baked chicken.
2. For garnish, sprinkle with fresh herbs such as parsley, if desired.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Adjust the Heat
You can modify the spice level of the honey sauce by adjusting the amount of hot sauce or red pepper flakes according to your taste.
Make It Gluten-Free
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs and panko with gluten-free versions.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain its crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Optional Toppings
Consider adding crumbled feta cheese over the chicken before drizzling the hot honey sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Cook Techniques
Preparing the Chicken
Ensure the chicken is dried using paper towels before seasoning. This helps achieve crispier skin when cooked.
Seasoning the Chicken
Distribute the seasoning mix evenly over all sides of the chicken for consistent flavor throughout the dish.
Making the Coating
Prepare a well-blended mix of flour or breadcrumbs and spices to ensure a crispy and flavorful coating.
Frying the Chicken
Heat oil to the optimal temperature before frying the chicken. This prevents it from absorbing excess oil and ensures a crispy exterior.
Preparing the Hot Honey Glaze
Create the hot honey glaze by gently combining the ingredients over low heat. Stir continuously to avoid burning the honey.
Combining the Glaze and Chicken
Pour or brush the hot honey glaze over the chicken right after cooking, ensuring it adheres properly for maximum flavor.
FAQ
Can I bake the chicken instead of frying it?
Yes, you can bake the chicken for a healthier alternative. Bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Feta provides a unique tangy flavor, but you can substitute with goat cheese or another crumbly cheese if desired.
What kind of oil is best for frying the chicken?
Use oils with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, for best results.
Is the hot honey glaze very spicy?
The glaze is moderately spicy with a balance of sweetness. You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili or hot sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the hot honey glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat lightly before applying to the chicken.
What sides pair well with this dish?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is a perfect combination of crunchy, sweet, and savory flavors, all topped with a heated and tangy twist. This recipe not only delivers a unique taste but also allows room for customization to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or a special gathering, this dish is bound to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.
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