Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers Recipe

Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

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

  1. Preheat an outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly coat the grate with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. 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.
  3. In a separate bowl, toss the green bell peppers and onions with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
  4. Thread the chicken, bell peppers, and onions onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for an even cook.
  5. 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).
  6. During the last 5 minutes of grilling, baste the skewers with hot honey and allow them to get lightly charred.
  7. Remove the skewers from the grill and top with extra hot honey and crumbled feta.
  8. 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.

FAQ about Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers Recipe

Leftover Hot Honey Feta Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill for best results. If reheating on the grill, do so over low heat to avoid overcooking the chicken.

Yes, you can prepare the skewers up to a day in advance. Assemble the chicken, peppers, and onions on the skewers, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill. Baste with hot honey and top with feta just before serving.

Yes, you can substitute the green bell peppers and onions with other vegetables, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.

Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

To check if the chicken is fully cooked, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. It should read 165°F (74°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear and the meat should no longer be pink in the center.

Yes, you can cook the skewers in a grill pan or on a stovetop grill if you don't have access to an outdoor grill. Simply heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 15-20 minutes, turning them regularly. You can also use an oven broiler if necessary.

Yes, you can make your own hot honey by combining honey with a hot sauce of your choice. Simply heat honey in a saucepan and stir in the hot sauce (or chili flakes) to taste. Adjust the spice level based on your preference.

While it is not recommended to freeze the skewers after they are grilled, you can freeze the uncooked skewers (before grilling). Assemble the chicken, vegetables, and seasonings on the skewers, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze. When ready to cook, grill directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your personal preference. If you prefer less sweetness, use less honey and add more hot sauce for extra heat. Alternatively, if you like it sweeter, add more honey or even a bit of maple syrup.

These skewers are great served with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them as a main dish or as part of a larger BBQ spread. The sweet and savory flavors pair well with a variety of side dishes.