Description
A quick, crowd-pleasing weeknight dish featuring juicy chicken topped with a sweet and spicy hot honey glaze and creamy feta.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces chicken thighs or breasts (about 1.5–2 lb / 700–900 g)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (kosher preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup honey (or maple syrup)
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or mint, roughly chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest or juice
- Toasted sesame seeds or extra chili flakes (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Pat chicken dry. In a bowl, combine olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken and let sit for 10–20 minutes (or refrigerate up to 2 hours).
- Cook the chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil. Sear chicken 4–6 minutes per side for thighs (6–8 for thicker breasts), until golden and an instant-read thermometer reads 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, roast at 425°F (220°C) for 18–25 minutes depending on cut. Transfer to a plate and rest for 5 minutes.
- Make the hot honey sauce: In the same pan, lower heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil. Sauté the minced garlic briefly until fragrant (30 seconds). Stir in honey, chili flakes, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until sauce is glossy and slightly reduced. Taste and adjust vinegar or chili flakes.
- Assemble and finish: Return chicken to the pan or arrange on a serving platter. Spoon hot honey over each piece. Crumble feta evenly across the chicken while sauce is warm so the feta softens slightly but retains texture. Sprinkle lemon zest and chopped parsley or mint.
- Serve immediately with your chosen sides.
Notes
If using shrimp, reduce cooking time dramatically. For tofu, press well and pan-sear until golden before finishing with the sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: American