Spicy Greek Chicken with Hot Honey & Whipped Feta
Description:
This vibrant Mediterranean-inspired dish features tender, marinated Greek chicken breast or thighs spiced with smoked paprika, garlic, and herbs. It’s grilled or pan-seared to perfection and drizzled with a sweet and spicy hot honey sauce. The tangy whipped feta spread balances the heat and adds a creamy element, making it a standout meal served with warm pita or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
2 tbsp olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
4 clves garlic, minced
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Hot Honey:
1/3 cup honey
1 tsp red pepper flakes (or to taste)
1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
For the Whipped Feta:
1 block (200g / 7 oz) feta cheese
1/3 cup Greek yogurt or cream cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 small garlic clove
Black pepper to taste
To Serve (Optional):
Warm pita or flatbread
Cucumber slices, red onions, olives
Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, mint)
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Add chicken and coat well.
Marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 24 hours in the fridge).
2. Prepare the Whipped Feta:
In a food processor, blend feta, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth.
Taste and season with pepper.
Chill until ready to serve.
3. Make the Hot Honey:
In a small saucepan, heat honey with chili flakes (and vinegar, if using) over low heat for 2–3 minutes.
Do not boil. Let it infuse, then remove from heat and set aside.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook marinated chicken 5–6 minutes per side (depending on thickness), until nicely charred and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
5. Assemble:
Spread a generous layer of whipped feta on the plate.
Slice chicken and place on top.
Drizzle with hot honey.
Garnish with herbs, pita, or veggies as desired.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Serves 4):
Note: Approximate values, varies based on specific ingredients used.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 460 kcal
Protein 35 g
Fat 27 g
Carbohydrates 17 g
Sugars 11 g
Fiber 1 g
Sodium 780 mg
Time Required:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Marinate time: 30 mins to overnight
Cook time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes (with 30-minute marinade)
Q&A Section:
Q: Is this dish very spicy?
A: The heat is moderate and mostly comes from the chili flakes and hot honey. You can adjust the spice level by reducing the red pepper flakes.
Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
A: Yes! Chicken breast works just as well, but be careful not to overcook it so it remains juicy.
Q: Is there a vegetarian option?
A: You can substitute chicken with grilled halloumi, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
Q: Can I make the whipped feta in advance?
A: Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: What should I serve with it?
A: It pairs well with warm pita, a Greek salad, lemon rice, or gri
lled veggies.