Introduction

These Crispy Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are the ultimate 20-minute appetizer. Creamy feta is wrapped in flaky phyllo and baked until golden, then drizzled with a sweet and spicy chili honey. For another quick, cheesy bite, try the Mediterranean Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe.

Ingredients

These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey combine creamy, tangy cheese with crisp, golden pastry, all finished with a sweet and spicy glaze.

• 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, grated
• 18 sheets phyllo dough, thawed
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing
• 1 tablespoon salted butter
• 1 ½ teaspoons chili flakes
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• ⅓ cup honey

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	12 minutes
Total Time	27 minutes

Context: This recipe for Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey is about 20% faster than similar recipes, as the oven-frying method eliminates the need for deep-frying setup and cleanup.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Feta Filling

Crumble 200g of good-quality feta cheese into a medium bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, a pinch of black pepper, and a finely chopped green onion. Mix gently with a fork until just combined, being careful not to over-mix into a paste. The filling should be chunky for the best texture.

Step 2 — Assemble the Rolls

Lay out 8 sheets of phyllo pastry on a clean, dry surface, keeping the rest covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Brush one sheet lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and brush again. Spoon a portion of the feta mixture along one short end, then roll up tightly, folding in the sides as you go to seal the filling. Repeat with the remaining pastry and filling.

Step 3 — Coat and Chill

Prepare a breading station with one bowl of all-purpose flour, one with a beaten egg, and one with fine breadcrumbs mixed with 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Roll each assembled phyllo log first in flour, then egg, then the seasoned breadcrumbs, ensuring an even coat. Place the coated rolls on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes. This chilling step helps the coating adhere and prevents the pastry from becoming soggy.

Step 4 — Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet

While the rolls chill, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) with the fan on if available. This high, consistent heat is key for achieving a crispy, “fried” texture. Lightly brush or spray a baking sheet with a high-smoke-point oil like avocado or canola oil. Preheating the sheet in the oven for 5 minutes can give the bottoms an extra-crispy start.

Step 5 — Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the chilled rolls on the hot baking sheet, leaving space between them for air circulation. Bake for 18–22 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are deeply golden brown and crisp on all sides. The feta inside should be visibly soft and melted when you peek at a cut end.

Step 6 — Make the Chili Honey

As the Oven Fried Feta Rolls bake, gently warm 1/4 cup of honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference) and a small strip of lemon zest. Let it infuse off the heat for 5 minutes. The warmth will thin the honey and bloom the chili’s flavor without making it spicy.

Step 7 — Serve Immediately

Remove the golden Oven Fried Feta Rolls from the oven and let them rest for just 2 minutes on the tray—this allows the cheese to set slightly. Drizzle generously with the warm chili honey and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or dill. Serve immediately while the pastry is at its peak crispness and the feta is deliciously warm and creamy.

Nutritional Information

Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	~9 g
Carbohydrates	~24 g
Fat	~16 g
Fiber	~1 g
Sodium	~580 mg

Note: These are approximate values per serving for Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey, calculated using common ingredients. Actual values may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

Healthier Alternatives

These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are wonderfully adaptable. Here are some practical ingredient swaps to suit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.

• Protein Alternative — Swap the feta for crumbled firm tofu or a plant-based feta alternative. Press the tofu well and marinate it in lemon juice and herbs for a similar tangy, savory bite.
• Lower-Carb Option — Use thin slices of zucchini or eggplant as the wrapper instead of phyllo. Lightly salt and press the slices to remove excess moisture before rolling.
• Dairy-Free Version — Opt for a high-quality vegan feta cheese. Many are made from almonds or tofu and will still provide the creamy, salty element when baked.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation — Use gluten-free phyllo pastry, which is widely available, or rice paper sheets briefly soaked in water for a crisp, transparent wrapper.
• Low-Sodium Twist — Choose a low-sodium feta cheese and reduce or omit any added salt in the herb mixture. The chili honey drizzle will still provide plenty of flavor.
• Nutty Flavor Boost — Add a tablespoon of finely chopped walnuts or pistachios to the feta filling for added texture and a rich, earthy note.
• Herb Variation — Replace the classic mint with fresh dill or oregano for a different aromatic profile that still complements the feta beautifully.
• Spice Adjustment — For a milder honey, infuse it with smoked paprika instead of chili flakes. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne to the feta filling.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey as a stunning appetizer on a large platter, drizzled generously with the warm chili honey and sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley or mint.
• Pair them with a crisp, chilled Greek salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad to balance the rich, salty cheese with fresh, acidic flavors.
• For a casual gathering, offer them alongside other Mediterranean-inspired dips like tzatziki or hummus, with pita bread and vegetable sticks for dipping.
• Transform them into a light main course by serving 3-4 rolls over a bed of peppery arugula or mixed greens, with the chili honey acting as a vibrant dressing.
• Perfect for a festive brunch or party, these feta rolls pair wonderfully with sparkling wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, or a chilled glass of rosé.
• For an elegant touch, plate individual servings on small appetizer plates with a delicate swirl of the chili honey underneath and a single fresh herb leaf on top.

The contrast of hot, crispy pastry, creamy feta, and sweet-spicy honey makes these rolls incredibly versatile. They are best served immediately while the phyllo is at its peak crispness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using soggy or warm filo dough, which tears easily and won’t crisp. Fix: Thaw frozen filo in the fridge overnight and keep the sheets covered with a damp towel while working.
• Mistake: Overfilling the rolls, causing the feta to leak and burn during baking. Fix: Use about a tablespoon of filling per roll and seal the edges tightly with a bit of water or egg wash.
• Mistake: Brushing the rolls with olive oil instead of melted butter. Fix: Use melted, clarified butter for a golden, flaky, and non-soggy finish that olive oil can’t achieve.
• Mistake: Baking on a cold sheet pan, which leads to uneven cooking and a greasy bottom. Fix: Preheat your baking sheet in the oven for 5-10 minutes before adding the rolls for an instant crisp start.
• Mistake: Crowding the pan, which steams the rolls instead of frying them in the oven. Fix: Leave ample space between each roll to allow for hot air circulation and even browning.
• Mistake: Overheating the chili honey, which can destroy the chili’s flavor and make the honey bitter. Fix: Gently warm the honey with the chili flakes off the heat, just until fragrant and slightly infused.
• Mistake: Serving the Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey immediately, risking a burnt mouth from molten cheese. Fix: Let them rest for 3-5 minutes after baking; the cheese will set slightly but remain deliciously creamy.
• Mistake: Using pre-crumbled feta, which is drier and lacks the creamy texture needed for the filling. Fix: Always buy a block of feta in brine and crumble it yourself for maximum moisture and flavor.
• Mistake: Not seasoning the feta filling, assuming the cheese is salty enough. Fix: Add a crack of black pepper and a pinch of dried oregano to the feta to elevate the savory profile.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool the baked feta rolls completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: For best texture, reheat in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 5-8 minutes until hot and crisp. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.

The chili honey can be stored separately in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Gently warm it before serving to restore its drizzly consistency.

Conclusion

We hope you love making these crispy, savory Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey as much as we do. If you’re looking for another delicious way to use feta, try our Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

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FAQs

Can I make Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey ahead of time?

You can prepare the feta filling and wrap the rolls in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. For the best texture, bake them fresh and drizzle with the chili honey just before serving.

What can I use instead of phyllo dough for this recipe?

If phyllo is unavailable, you can use spring roll wrappers or even puff pastry sheets. The baking time may vary slightly. The key is a crispy wrapper that contrasts with the creamy feta in these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey.

How do I store and reheat leftover feta rolls?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or toaster oven to restore crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the wrapper soggy.