If you’re craving something that’s bursting with texture and flavor, the Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. Imagine tender chicken breasts, coated in a golden, crunchy crust, topped with luscious, slightly tangy feta cheese, and drizzled with a spicy-sweet hot honey glaze that wakes up every bite. This dish combines heat, sweetness, and savory notes perfectly—bringing a little excitement to your weeknight meals or impressing guests with ease. Once you try this Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe, it will quickly become a favorite you want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows three white bowls placed side by side on a white marbled surface, each containing a chicken piece at a different stage of coating. In the first bowl on the left, a raw pink chicken piece lies flat over a layer of pale beige flour mixture. The middle bowl shows the same chicken piece now covered in a yellowish beaten egg mixture, which is smooth and glossy, filling the bottom of the bowl. The bowl on the right has the chicken piece coated in a crumbly, light brown breadcrumb mix with a coarse texture, evenly covering the chicken. The photo is taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, whether it’s building layers of flavor or adding that irresistible crispy texture that makes you want to dive right in.

  • Honey (1/3 cup / 110g): Provides the perfect sweet base that balances the heat and makes the chicken glaze irresistibly sticky.
  • Hot Sauce (1 1/2 tsp): I love Frank’s or Cholula; it adds a flavorful kick that livens up the honey without overpowering it.
  • Chilli Flakes (3/4 tsp): Bring a gentle but noticeable heat to the hot honey drizzle.
  • Chicken Breasts (2 x 250g/9oz): The star protein, sliced horizontally for even cooking and the ideal bite size.
  • Paprika (2 tsp): Adds smoky warmth and vibrant color to the seasoning blend.
  • Salt (1 tsp): Essential for enhancing and balancing all flavors.
  • Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Dried Oregano, Black Pepper (each 1/2 tsp except pepper): These aromatics bring depth and brightness to the crust seasoning.
  • Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp): A subtle heat boost for the chicken batter.
  • Plain Flour (35g / 1/4 cup): The first step in that crispy coating, helping the egg wash stick perfectly.
  • Eggs (2, beaten): Bind the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken for that signature crunch.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs (65g / 1 cup): The secret behind the extra crispy exterior everyone loves.
  • Vegetable Oil (6-8 tbsp as needed): For frying to golden perfection.
  • Feta Cheese (200g / 7oz, crumbled): Adds creamy, tangy contrast that melts to buttery perfection under the grill.

How to Make Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Hot Honey Glaze

Start by combining honey, hot sauce, and chilli flakes in a small bowl. Warm it gently—either in the microwave for about 20 seconds or on the stove just until it simmers—then stir and set aside to cool. This glaze is the magic touch that ties all the flavors together, and you can adjust the heat level just how you like it by adding more chili flakes or hot sauce.

Step 2: Season and Slice the Chicken

Take your chicken breasts and slice them horizontally right through the center, creating four evenly sized pieces that cook quickly and stay juicy. Next, mix your paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper in a small bowl. This seasoning mix will coat the flour and breadcrumbs, giving every bite a well-rounded flavor.

Step 3: Dredge the Chicken

Set up three shallow dishes for the classic dredging process: one with flour and half your seasoning mix, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs combined with the remaining seasoning. Dip each chicken piece first in flour, then the egg, and finally coat them thoroughly in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. The triple coat ensures that incredible crispy texture you’re aiming for.

Step 4: Fry to Golden Perfection

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until a breadcrumb sizzles immediately upon hitting the oil. Carefully place the chicken pieces in the pan (work in batches if needed), frying each side for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re a rich, golden brown. Use a wire rack above a tray to let the fried chicken rest—this keeps the crust crunchy instead of soggy.

Step 5: Add Feta and Finish Under the Grill

Cover the top of each piece generously with crumbled feta, then place them under a high grill until the cheese begins to turn golden and slightly crisp. The feta transforms from crumbly to buttery soft, adding a tangy, savory richness that perfectly balances the spicy-hot honey glaze coming next.

Step 6: Drizzle and Serve

Finally, drizzle your hot honey glaze over the warm, feta-topped chicken just before serving. This last step seals all those contrasting flavors in one delicious bite. Don’t forget to store any leftover honey tightly sealed in the fridge; it’s a fantastic addition to other dishes, too.

How to Serve Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe

A white plate holds a meal with three main parts: on the left, golden brown potato wedges with a crispy texture; in the middle, a breaded meat fillet covered fully with a creamy, slightly melted white cheese layer sprinkled with red chili flakes and a drizzle of reddish oil; and at the top right, a fresh green salad made of leafy arugula and small pieces of red tomato. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of finely sliced spring onions add a vibrant pop of color and freshness against the warm, spiced crust and creamy feta. A light dusting of extra chili flakes can amp up the heat if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This chicken pairs wonderfully with cool, crisp sides that balance its richness. Think simple green salads with lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, try a cucumber and tomato salad, which offers refreshing juiciness alongside your spicy, crispy chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve this Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe on a bed of fluffy couscous or quinoa to soak up all those delicious juices. Alternatively, slice it over warm flatbreads alongside pickled red onions and a drizzle of extra hot honey for a casual, delicious wrap-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the feta-covered chicken separate from the hot honey will help prevent sogginess when reheating.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe, flash freeze the fried chicken pieces without the feta first on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Add fresh feta and hot honey after reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes to bring back crispiness—avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy. Add fresh feta and drizzle with the hot honey glaze right after warming.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer more fat and tenderness, which can be delightful, though cooking times may be a bit longer. Just make sure to adjust size and thickness for even cooking.

Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

Yes! Simply reduce the amount of hot sauce and chili flakes in the honey glaze, or use a milder hot sauce to suit your heat preference without losing the harmony of flavors.

Can I bake the chicken instead of frying?

Sure! Baking at 220°C (425°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, can yield a crispy outside, especially if you lightly spray the crust with oil before baking.

What kind of honey works best?

Use a mild, runny honey like clover or wildflower honey so the heat and sweet flavors balance beautifully in your hot honey glaze.

How do I prevent the feta from drying out under the grill?

Keep your grill time short and watch closely—the feta should soften and develop golden brown spots but not become hard. The key is buttery softness with just a little crispy edge.

Final Thoughts

There is something wonderfully satisfying about the combination of crunchy, spicy, sweet, and tangy all in one dish. The Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe captures that joy perfectly, making it a standout meal that’s simple enough for busy evenings but impressive enough for guests. Give it a go and watch it become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.

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Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe

Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 6 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken recipe combines juicy, perfectly fried chicken breasts coated in a flavorful, crunchy panko crust with a spicy-sweet hot honey glaze and a rich, creamy feta topping. The chicken is seasoned with paprika and aromatic spices, pan-fried until golden and crispy, then finished under the grill to melt and slightly brown the feta cheese. It’s a delightful fusion of heat, sweetness, and tangy creaminess, perfect for a satisfying dinner.


Ingredients

Hot Honey Sauce

  • 1/3 cup / 110g Honey
  • 1 1/2 tsp Hot Sauce (Frank’s or Cholula recommended)
  • 3/4 tsp Chilli Flakes

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2x 250g / 9oz Chicken Breasts (sliced horizontally to make 4 even pieces)
  • 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
  • 35g / 1/4 cup Plain Flour
  • 2 Eggs, beaten
  • 65g / 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • Vegetable Oil (6-8 tbsp as needed for frying)

Topping

  • 200g / 7oz Feta Cheese, crumbled


Instructions

  1. Prepare Hot Honey Sauce: Combine honey, hot sauce, and chili flakes in a microwave-safe bowl and warm for about 20 seconds. Stir well and set aside to cool. Alternatively, gently warm on the stove until just simmering, then remove and cool. Adjust heat by varying chili flakes or hot sauce as preferred.
  2. Slice and Season Chicken: Horizontally slice chicken breasts to create four evenly sized pieces. In a small bowl, mix paprika, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, cayenne, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend.
  3. Prepare Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: first with flour combined with half the seasoning, second with beaten eggs, third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with remaining seasoning. Dredge each chicken piece in flour, then egg, then panko, ensuring a thorough coating at each step. Place coated chicken on a tray.
  4. Fry Chicken: Heat enough vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat to coat the base. When hot (breadcrumb sizzles immediately), carefully fry chicken in batches if necessary to avoid crowding, for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. Transfer to a wire rack set over a tray.
  5. Add Feta and Grill: Generously cover each piece of fried chicken with crumbled feta. Place under a high grill until the feta softens and begins to brown lightly, becoming buttery and slightly crisp on top.
  6. Serve: Drizzle hot honey sauce over the grilled feta chicken to taste and serve immediately. Store leftover hot honey tightly sealed in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing chili flakes and hot sauce according to your preference.
  • Slicing the chicken horizontally ensures even cooking and thinner pieces for a crispier crust.
  • Use a wire rack when resting fried chicken to keep it crispy by allowing excess oil to drip away.
  • The feta topping adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the spicy crunchy chicken, but can be omitted for a dairy-free option.
  • Leftover hot honey keeps well refrigerated in a sealed container for up to two weeks.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Chicken
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

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