Description

Craving a bold, flavorful dish that combines sweet, spicy, and savory elements for a family dinner or a romantic Valentine’s Day meal? Slow Cooker Crispy Hot Honey Feta Chicken is your answer! Adapted from the original oven-baked recipe, this slow cooker version features tender chicken breasts seasoned with garlic, paprika, and black pepper, seared for a golden crust, slow-cooked in a light broth, and topped with crumbled feta and a drizzle of hot honey.

Ingredients

Boneless Chicken Breasts (4, about 1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: Lean, tender protein that absorbs seasonings and stays juicy in the slow cooker.
- Substitutions: Chicken thighs (juicier, same cooking time), or tofu for vegetarian (cook 3–4 hours on low, pressed and seared).
Olive Oil (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Used for searing to create a golden, crispy exterior.
- Substitutions: Avocado oil, vegetable oil, or butter.
Garlic Powder (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the chicken with savory, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: 2 minced garlic cloves or ½ tsp garlic paste.
Paprika (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild smokiness and vibrant color to the chicken.
- Substitutions: Smoked paprika for deeper flavor, chili powder for a slight kick, or omit.
Salt (½ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and seasonings.
- Substitutions: Sea salt or kosher salt.
Black Pepper (¼ tsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds mild heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Substitutions: White pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
Crumbled Feta Cheese (½ cup):
- Why it’s important: Provides tangy, salty flavor and a creamy texture when melted.
- Substitutions: Goat cheese, queso fresco, or vegan feta for plant-based.
Hot Honey (3 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds a sweet-spicy glaze that defines the dish’s unique flavor.
- Substitutions: Regular honey mixed with ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, or maple syrup with a pinch of cayenne.
Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped, for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Chives, cilantro, or omit.

Additional for Slow Cooker:

Chicken Broth (¼ cup):
- Why it’s important: Keeps the chicken moist during slow cooking without overpowering the flavors.
- Substitutions: Vegetable broth or water.

Tip: Use high-quality hot honey for the best sweet-spicy balance, and crumble feta fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

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Instructions

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat 4 boneless chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
Rub each breast with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season both sides with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat (no additional oil needed).
Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown but not fully cooked through (the slow cooker will finish cooking).
Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Tip: Sear in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding, which can prevent browning.

Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Lightly grease the slow cooker insert with cooking spray or a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.
Place the seared chicken breasts in a single layer in the slow cooker.
Pour ¼ cup chicken broth around (not over) the chicken to maintain moisture without softening the seared crust.
Tip: Arrange chicken evenly to ensure consistent cooking, and avoid pouring broth directly on the chicken to preserve the crispy exterior.

Step 3: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F/75°C internally) and tender.
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat and prevent moisture buildup.

Step 4: Add Feta and Hot Honey

In the last 15–20 minutes of cooking, drizzle 3 tbsp hot honey evenly over the chicken breasts.
Sprinkle ½ cup crumbled feta cheese over the top.
Cover and cook until the feta softens and the honey warms through, creating a glossy glaze.
Tip: If you prefer a bubblier topping, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet after slow cooking and broil at 400°F (200°C) for 2–3 minutes to melt the feta further.

Step 5: Serve

Carefully transfer the chicken to plates, ensuring the feta and honey glaze remain intact.
Garnish with 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Serve hot with sides like roasted vegetables, couscous, or a green salad.
Tip: Spoon any remaining glaze from the slow cooker over the chicken for extra flavor, and serve on warm plates to keep the dish hot.