Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey Recipe
Introduction
These Crispy Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are the perfect quick appetizer or snack. Ready in just 30 minutes, they feature golden, flaky pastry wrapped around creamy feta, all baked until crisp and drizzled with a sweet and spicy honey. For another delicious way to enjoy feta, try this Baked Pears with Feta, Honey, and Cranberries Recipe.
Ingredients
These rolls combine the creamy, briny tang of feta with the crisp, flaky layers of phyllo, all finished with a warm, spicy-sweet honey 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, thanks to the efficient oven-frying method.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare the Feta Filling
Crumble 200g of high-quality Greek feta cheese into a bowl. For a smoother texture, you can mash it lightly with a fork. Mix in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh dill or parsley for a herby note. Taste and add a pinch of black pepper if desired, but remember the cheese is already salty.
Step 2 — Assemble the Rolls
Lay out one sheet of thawed phyllo pastry on a clean, dry surface. Keep the remaining sheets covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Brush the sheet lightly with melted butter or olive oil. Place a second sheet on top and brush again. Cut the layered sheets lengthwise into three long strips.
Place a heaping tablespoon of the feta mixture at the end of each strip. Fold the pastry over the filling into a triangle, then continue folding in a flag-fold technique to seal the filling completely. Repeat with all strips and remaining pastry.
Step 3 — Preheat and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) with the fan on, if available, for optimal crispiness. While it heats, line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the assembled Oven Fried Feta Rolls on the sheet, leaving a little space between them for even browning. Brush the tops lightly with more melted butter or oil.
Step 4 — Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven’s middle rack. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the rolls are deeply golden brown and crisp. The high heat ensures the phyllo becomes flaky while the feta inside melts beautifully. For extra color, you can broil for the final minute, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 5 — Make the Chili Honey
While the rolls bake, gently warm ¼ cup of honey in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in ½ to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes, depending on your desired heat level. Let the mixture infuse for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then remove from heat. The honey will thin out and become beautifully infused with spice.
Step 6 — Serve Immediately
Remove the golden Oven Fried Feta Rolls from the oven and let them cool for just a minute on the tray—they are best served warm. Drizzle the warm chili honey generously over the top or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with extra fresh herbs and a final sprinkle of pepper flakes for presentation.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | ~280 kcal |
| Protein | ~9 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~26 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~1 g |
| Sodium | ~480 mg |
Note: These values are estimates for one serving of Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey, based on typical ingredients and preparation. Actual nutrition can vary.
Healthier Alternatives
These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are wonderfully adaptable. Here are some simple swaps to suit different dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Lower-Fat Cheese — Swap the feta for a reduced-fat version or even ricotta for a milder, creamier filling.
- Gluten-Free Wraps — Use your favorite gluten-free tortillas or spring roll wrappers to make these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey accessible to all.
- Dairy-Free Filling — For a vegan version, use a firm, brine-cured tofu or a plant-based feta alternative; the salty, tangy profile works perfectly.
- Protein Boost — Add finely chopped cooked chicken, ground turkey, or lentils to the cheese mixture for a more substantial roll.
- Lower-Carb Option — Wrap the filling in large, blanched cabbage or collard green leaves before baking for a veggie-packed alternative.
- Air Fryer Method — For an even crispier result with less oil, cook the rolls in an air fryer at 400°F for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Low-Sodium Twist — Opt for a low-sodium feta and reduce or omit the salt in the breading to better control the saltiness.
- Spice Variations — Customize the chili honey by using smoked paprika, gochujang, or a dash of cayenne for different heat profiles.

Serving Suggestions
- Pair these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey with a crisp, chilled Greek salad or a simple tomato and cucumber Horiatiki salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Serve them as a stunning appetizer for a dinner party, placing the rolls on a wooden board with the chili honey in a small dipping bowl in the center.
- For a casual gathering, offer them alongside other Mediterranean-inspired dips like tzatziki and warm pita bread.
- Turn them into a hearty lunch by stuffing them into a warm pita pocket with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of extra chili honey.
- Balance the rich, salty feta and spicy honey by pairing with a glass of chilled Assyrtiko white wine or a crisp lager.
- For a beautiful brunch spread, add these rolls to a platter with fresh fruit, olives, and assorted cheeses.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or mint and a few extra chili flakes just before serving to enhance color and aroma.
These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are incredibly versatile. Their combination of crispy texture, creamy cheese, and sweet heat makes them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion, from a quick snack to an elegant starter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using soggy or warm phyllo dough, which tears easily and won’t crisp. Fix: Thaw phyllo overnight in the fridge and keep it 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 butter.
- Mistake: Brushing phyllo with olive oil instead of melted butter, resulting in less flavor and a paler color. Fix: Use clarified butter or good-quality melted butter for a golden, flaky finish.
- Mistake: Baking on a cold sheet pan, which leads to a greasy, undercooked bottom. Fix: Preheat your baking sheet in the oven for 5 minutes before adding the rolls.
- Mistake: Overheating the honey, which destroys its delicate flavor and beneficial enzymes. Fix: Warm the honey gently with the chili just until it’s thin enough to drizzle.
- Mistake: Crowding the pan, which steams the rolls instead of letting them fry in the oven. Fix: Space rolls at least an inch apart to ensure even heat circulation and crispness.
- Mistake: Using pre-crumbled feta, which is drier and lacks the creamy texture needed. Fix: Always buy a block of feta in brine and crumble it yourself for maximum moisture and flavor.
- Mistake: Skipping the resting time after baking, causing the molten filling to burn your mouth. Fix: Let your Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
- Mistake: Adding chili to honey at the start of cooking, which can make the infusion bitter. Fix: Steep the chili in warm honey off the heat for 10 minutes, then strain if desired.
- Mistake: Not seasoning the feta filling, assuming the cheese is salty enough. Fix: Taste and lightly season with black pepper or a pinch of dried oregano to balance the richness.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container 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.
- Reheat: For best texture, reheat in a preheated oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) until hot and crisp, about 5-8 minutes. 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 several weeks. For the crispiest results, enjoy your Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey fresh or reheated from frozen without thawing first.
Conclusion
These Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey are a perfect, fuss-free appetizer or snack. The crispy, golden exterior and warm, melty feta center are simply irresistible. If you love feta, try our Strawberry & Blueberry Spinach Salad with Pecans and Feta Recipe or Mediterranean Chicken Gyros with Creamy Feta Tzatziki Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think in the comments!
PrintOven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey
Crispy phyllo rolls filled with feta, dill, and garlic, baked to golden perfection and served with sweet-spicy chili honey drizzle.[1]
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 18 rolls 1x
- Method: Appetizer
- Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine crumbled feta cheese, chopped dill, and grated garlic until well blended.
- Lay out 3 sheets of phyllo dough, brush with olive oil, add 1-2 tablespoons of filling at one end, roll tightly into a log, and place seam-side down on the baking sheet. Repeat with remaining sheets and filling.
- Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- While rolls bake, melt 1 tablespoon salted butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Add chili flakes and cumin seeds, sizzle for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in honey until combined.
Notes
Keep phyllo dough covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying. First roll may not be perfect; practice improves technique. Rolls can be assembled ahead and baked just before serving; delicious warm or at room temperature.[1][2]
Nutrition
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
FAQs
Can I make these Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling and wrap the rolls a few hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. For the best texture, bake them fresh and serve the Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey immediately while warm and crispy.
What can I use instead of phyllo dough for this recipe?
If phyllo is unavailable, you can use spring roll wrappers or even thin puff pastry sheets. The baking time may vary slightly. The key is a thin, flaky wrapper to achieve that signature crisp texture for the Oven Fried Feta Rolls with Chili Honey.
How do I store and reheat any leftovers?
Store leftover rolls 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, which will make them soggy. The chili honey is best served fresh at room temperature.
