Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious one-pan dish that combines the sweetness of honey with the smoky flavor of BBQ sauce. It’s easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and vibrant mixed vegetables creates a complete meal in one pot, which is perfect for anyone who loves comfort food.

How to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• Chopped green onions or parsley

Directions

1. Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
6. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
7. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
8. After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice.
9. Cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
10. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice.
11. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

How to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice warm, straight from the pan. This dish is great on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread. For an extra touch, drizzle additional BBQ sauce over the top before serving.

How to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

To store leftovers, place the cooled Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the rice.

Tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

• Choose your favorite BBQ sauce to customize the flavor of this dish.
• If you prefer a healthier option, opt for skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs.
• Feel free to add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or peas, for added nutrition and color.
• Adjust the amount of honey based on your desired sweetness level.
• Use jasmine or basmati rice for a lovely aroma and flavor.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
• Pair with cornbread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Add a side of coleslaw to complement the flavors of the chicken.

Final Thoughts

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings joy to any meal. It’s easy to make and clean-up is a breeze, since everything is cooked in one pan. Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is perfect for meal prep. Just divide it into portions and refrigerate or freeze for future meals.

What can I substitute for chicken if I want a vegetarian option?
You can use firm tofu or tempeh in place of chicken for a tasty vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

A delicious one-pan dish combining the sweetness of honey with smoky BBQ sauce, featuring tender chicken, flavorful rice, and vibrant mixed vegetables.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup long-grain rice You can also use jasmine or basmati rice.
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor.
• ¼ cup honey Adjust based on desired sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper To taste.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables Frozen or fresh.
• Chopped green onions or parsley For garnish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Cooking

1. In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
3. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
5. After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice.
6. Cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
7. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

Notes

Serve warm, straight from the pan. Pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.