Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Introduction

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful one-pan meal combining tender chicken thighs with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all cooked together with fragrant rice. This easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious without a lot of fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic to create the sauce blend.
4. Step 4: Using the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor. Then add the chicken broth and half of the prepared sauce, stirring to combine.
5. Step 5: Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan and pour the remaining sauce on top.
6. Step 6: Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to cook the rice and chicken together.
7. Step 7: Add the mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
8. Step 8: Let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ-honey sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use brown rice instead of long-grain for a nuttier texture, but increase cooking time accordingly.
• Add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a more savory or spicy kick.
• Mix in your favorite frozen or fresh vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas to boost nutrition and color.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but be careful not to overcook them. They may require slightly less simmering time to stay juicy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely. This one-pan dish stores well and makes a satisfying meal for several days. Just keep the garnish separate and add fresh before serving for the best texture.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.4 from 131 reviews

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender seared chicken thighs cooked with smoky spices and a sweet honey BBQ sauce, combined with perfectly simmered rice and optional mixed vegetables. This quick and easy dish delivers a comforting blend of sweet and savory flavors, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 clove minced garlic

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to ensure flavorful meat.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken thighs in the pan and sear for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove from the skillet and set aside temporarily.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Mix well to blend all flavors together.
4. Toast the Rice: Using the same skillet (with any leftover juices), add the uncooked long-grain rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and enhance nuttiness.
5. Add Liquids and Part Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and half of the prepared honey BBQ sauce mixture into the skillet with the toasted rice. Stir to combine everything evenly.
6. Simmer with Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, arranging them on top of the rice mixture. Pour the remaining half of the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken to coat.
7. Cook Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let everything simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb liquid and the chicken to continue cooking through.
8. Add Vegetables: If using mixed vegetables, add them to the skillet, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender, vegetables are cooked, and chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
9. Rest and Garnish: Turn off the heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to let flavors settle. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Notes

• For best results, use bone-in chicken thighs if you want extra flavor, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
• Mixed vegetables can include carrots, peas, corn, and bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• If you don’t have soy sauce, you can substitute with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, Chicken Rice Recipe, One Pan Meal, Easy Dinner, Comfort Food