Chef Mitchell preparing Glazed Chicken with Feta
πŸ‘¨β€πŸ³ Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

πŸŽ“ 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❀️ My Recipe Story

"This Glazed Chicken with Feta recipe has been a family favorite for years. I stumbled upon it during a Mediterranean cooking class and have spent time perfecting the glaze to achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess. It's always a hit at gatherings, and I love how it brings everyone together around the dinner table."

With over a decade of experience in culinary arts, I specialize in Mediterranean cuisine. My passion for cooking began in childhood, and I've dedicated my career to exploring and sharing the vibrant flavors of this region through delicious dinner recipes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes β†’
Delicious Glazed Chicken with Feta served on a plate

Why This Glazed Chicken with Feta Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its unique glaze that combines sweet honey, tangy balsamic vinegar, and savory soy sauce. The addition of feta brings a creamy texture and adds to the Mediterranean flair of the dish. It's a simple yet elegant meal that can impress guests or satisfy family dinners.

Using fresh ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor. The marinade not only adds taste but also helps to tenderize the chicken, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful. This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides, making it a staple in any kitchen.

πŸ’‘ Professional Tip

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful dish. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C) for safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and marinate it a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari. For a lower sodium option, use coconut aminos. Both alternatives will still provide a savory depth of flavor to the dish.

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check. Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown and the juices should run clear when pierced.

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken before cooking. Just place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Cooked leftovers can also be frozen and reheated later.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh Greek salad, or fluffy couscous. You can also serve it with warm pita bread to soak up the flavorful glaze.

When stored in an airtight container, Glazed Chicken with Feta can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming to maintain its flavor and safety.

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken a day ahead. Cook it just before serving for the best results. This method helps you to enjoy the dish freshly made while still saving time.

To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil. Heat in a preheated oven at 350Β°F (175Β°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, checking for even heating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

βœ…

Too Dry

Problem: The chicken came out dry after cooking.

Solution: To prevent dry chicken, avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. If marinating, ensure that the chicken soaks for long enough to enhance moisture.

βœ…

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The chicken skin isn't crispy.

Solution: For crispier skin, broil the chicken for the last 3-5 minutes of cooking. Also, ensure the oven is preheated, and avoid overcrowding the baking dish to allow proper air circulation.

βœ…

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken turned out overcooked and tough.

Prevention: To avoid overcooking, monitor the cooking time closely. Use a meat thermometer to determine doneness and remove the chicken from the oven immediately once it reaches the target temperature.

βœ…

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken center is undercooked.

Recovery: If you find that the chicken is undercooked, return it to the oven immediately and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). Cover with foil to help it cook evenly.

βœ…

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken skin has burned.

Prevention: To prevent burning, check the chicken periodically, especially towards the end of cooking. If the skin starts to darken too much, cover it loosely with foil to shield it from direct heat.

βœ…

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, serve with a side of unsalted grains or vegetables to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the chicken is bland, consider adding more herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile.

Fresh ingredients for Glazed Chicken with Feta

Essential Ingredients for Glazed Chicken with Feta

The key ingredients for this dish include fresh chicken, which should be of high quality for the best flavor. Feta cheese adds a creamy texture and tangy taste that perfectly complements the glaze. Honey and balsamic vinegar create a delicious balance of sweetness and acidity, making every bite memorable.

Choosing high-quality ingredients is essential for achieving the best flavor in this recipe. Fresh herbs like parsley elevate the dish, and high-quality olive oil can enhance the overall taste. Using organic ingredients can also make a difference in flavor and nutrition.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Use organic, free-range chicken for the best flavor and texture. Cutting it into even pieces ensures that it cooks evenly and stays juicy.
  • Feta Cheese: Opt for block feta cheese instead of crumbles for superior flavor. Crumble it yourself just before serving for the freshest taste.
  • Honey: Choose raw or local honey for a more complex flavor. It adds a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish perfectly.
Cooking process for Glazed Chicken with Feta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Glazed Chicken with Feta is a straightforward process that involves marinating the chicken, baking, and garnishing. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, ensuring that it is juicy and tender. Baking at the right temperature allows for even cooking and caramelization of the glaze.

Achieving perfect results is all about timing and temperature. Keeping an eye on the chicken while it bakes will help prevent overcooking or burning. Ensuring that the glaze caramelizes nicely contributes to a beautiful presentation and enhances the flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Glazed Chicken with Feta

The key technique for this recipe is marinating the chicken sufficiently. This not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Combining the right balance of sweet and savory in the glaze is crucial for achieving an irresistible dish that your family will love.

Glazed Chicken with Feta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

πŸ“‹ Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/2 cup honey
    Natural sweetener
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
    Low sodium preferred
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
    Adds depth
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    Herb flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
    For topping
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1 lemon
    Zested and juiced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    For baking
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives
    Pitted

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Begin by gathering all ingredients and cutting the chicken into pieces. Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).

  2. Make the Marinade

    In a bowl, mix together the butter, honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.

  3. Marinate the Chicken

    Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.

  4. Bake the Chicken

    Transfer the marinated chicken to a baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the top and arrange cherry tomatoes and olives around the chicken.

  5. Cook the Chicken

    Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

  6. Add Feta and Parsley

    In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley over the chicken.

  7. Finish and Serve

    Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes. Drizzle with lemon juice before serving.

  8. Garnish

    Garnish with additional parsley and lemon zest if desired before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To properly store leftover Glazed Chicken with Feta, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. To keep the chicken moist, consider adding a splash of broth or the leftover marinade before sealing the container.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve Glazed Chicken with Feta alongside a fresh Greek salad or roasted seasonal vegetables. A side of couscous or quinoa would also complement the dish beautifully, adding texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables to the baking dish, such as zucchini or bell peppers. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also substitute chicken for turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.