Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 green bell peppers, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 1/2 white onion, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 4 large metal skewers
- 1/4 cup hot honey, plus more for serving
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta, or to taste
Directions
- Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly coat the grate with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the chicken cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, toss the green bell peppers and onions with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Thread the chicken, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for an even cook.
- Grill the skewers for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is no longer pink at the center and the juices run clear. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F (74C).
- During the last 5 minutes of grilling, baste the skewers with hot honey and allow them to get lightly charred.
- Remove the skewers from the grill and top with extra hot honey and crumbled feta.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrition | Amount per serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 550 | - |
| Total Fat | 18g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 26% |
| Cholesterol | 204mg | 68% |
| Sodium | 548mg | 24% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22g | 8% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 3% |
| Total Sugars | 19g | - |
| Protein | 73g | 146% |
| Vitamin C | 22mg | 25% |
| Calcium | 110mg | 8% |
| Iron | 3mg | 16% |
| Potassium | 689mg | 15% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Consult a doctor or registered dietitian if following a medically restricted diet.
The Story Behind Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers
Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers are a modern twist on traditional grilled chicken skewers, combining the fiery sweetness of hot honey with the tangy creaminess of feta cheese. While skewered and grilled meats have a rich history across many culturesfrom Middle Eastern kebabs to Mediterranean souvlakithis particular recipe emerged from contemporary American cuisine, where chefs experiment with bold flavor contrasts. The addition of hot honey is a nod to Southern-style honey sauces that gained popularity in the early 21st century, while feta introduces a distinctly Greek influence, creating a fusion that is both innovative and approachable.
Regional Variations
In the United States, this dish is most often associated with urban culinary hubs where fusion grilling is celebrated. Coastal cities like New York and Los Angeles have popularized it in trendy eateries, often served alongside fresh salads or roasted vegetables. In the South, some variations may incorporate locally produced honey, giving a unique floral sweetness, while Mediterranean-influenced kitchens might substitute bell peppers with cherry tomatoes or zucchini, reflecting the produce common in that region.
How It Differs from Similar Dishes
Unlike classic chicken kebabs or souvlaki, Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers stand out due to the balance of sweet, spicy, and salty flavors. Traditional kebabs may use marinated meats with mild seasonings, focusing primarily on the grilled meat itself. Here, the hot honey glaze caramelizes on the chicken, adding a complex sweetness, while crumbled feta delivers a salty, creamy counterpoint. This combination creates a flavor profile that is more layered than typical grilled chicken dishes.
Where Its Usually Served
This dish is highly versatile in dining settings. You can find it at casual backyard barbecues, upscale gastro pubs, and even at food festivals that celebrate innovative grilling techniques. It pairs well with light, refreshing sides such as arugula salad, roasted potatoes, or couscous, making it suitable for both lunch and dinner menus. Its visually appealing presentation also makes it a popular choice for serving at parties and catered events.
Interesting Facts
- The combination of hot honey and feta may seem unusual, but it follows a culinary trend of contrasting flavorssweet, spicy, and saltyto enhance taste complexity.
- Feta cheese, traditionally from Greece, has been incorporated into American barbecue culture, showing how global ingredients can merge seamlessly in modern recipes.
- Grilling the skewers with honey creates a subtle caramelization on the chicken, which not only adds flavor but also gives the dish a visually striking glaze.
- This recipe can be adapted for indoor cooking with a grill pan or broiler, making it accessible year-round regardless of outdoor weather.
- Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers exemplify how simple ingredientschicken, peppers, onions, honey, and cheesecan be transformed into a gourmet experience with minimal effort.