Hot Honey Feta Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet heat and creamy tang, making it a standout dish for anyone craving bold flavor with minimal effort. This quick, healthy recipe is packed with lean protein, a touch of spiced honey, and a sprinkle of creamy feta, all ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep, it’s a satisfying, flavorful choice that won’t derail your clean eating goals. Whether served with a salad or roasted veggies, each bite delivers mouthwatering goodness you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tablespoon hot honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a small baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove from heat.
- Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish if not using an oven-safe skillet. Spoon 1 tablespoon of crumbled feta cheese over the top of each chicken breast.
- Drizzle the hot honey evenly over the feta-topped chicken breasts.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is slightly melted.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This helps retain the juices.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm with your choice of healthy sides.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 275
Protein (g): 28
Fat (g): 13
Carbohydrates (g): 7
Fiber (g): 0
Sugar (g): 5
Sodium (mg): 430
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Hot Honey Feta Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you wish to freeze, wrap each chicken breast tightly in plastic wrap or place in a freezer-safe bag. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best quality, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken in a covered baking dish. Heat for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through. This method helps preserve the juiciness and texture. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil for added moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery and the feta grainy.
Ingredient Swaps & Enhancements
To boost the nutritional value while keeping it paleo-aligned, consider adding chopped spinach or kale for antioxidants and fiber. Sauté these greens in the olive oil before cooking the chicken. Swap feta with a dairy-free feta alternative if strict paleo compliance is necessary. Adding sliced avocado as a topping increases healthy fats and potassium, while a side of roasted sweet potatoes contributes complex carbs and beta-carotene. For extra protein, top with chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts, which also provide a satisfying crunch and omega-3s.
