Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere I was, tired after a long day, staring at the same old takeout menu that had become all too familiar. That’s when I decided it was time for something different, yet oh-so-simple: Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. This one-pan dish transforms everyday ingredients into a comforting meal that the whole family will adore. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavor-packed feast that’s healthy and perfect for meal prep—no more last-minute fast food runs! Plus, the versatility means you can easily cater to dietary needs, whether it’s gluten-free or a vegetarian delight. What delightful twist will you add to make it your own? Why is Honey BBQ Chicken Rice a Must-Try? One-Pan Wonder: This dish simplifies your cooking routine, making cleanup a breeze while still delivering on flavor. Flavor Explosion: The sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce create a mouthwatering glaze that your family will crave. Customizable for Everyone: Whether you’re looking to tweak it for gluten-free or vegetarian options, this recipe adapts to meet your needs effortlessly. Perfect for Meal Prep: Make-ahead convenience means you can whip up a delicious, satisfying meal without any fuss during the busy week. Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will enjoy this comforting dish, ensuring no complaints at the dinner table. Pair it with fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. You can also try it alongside Pineapple Chicken Rice for another family favorite! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Ingredients • Here’s what you need to make this delightful dish! For the Chicken Chicken thighs – A juicy protein source that keeps the dish tender. You can substitute with chicken breasts, but be cautious as they may dry out faster. For the Rice Long-grain white rice – This acts as the perfect base and holds up well under the savory sauce. Brown rice is a great substitute for added fiber, just adjust the cooking time. For the BBQ Sauce Honey – Adds natural sweetness and enhances the caramelizing process. Reduce the amount if you’re looking for a lower sugar option. BBQ sauce – Infuses smoky flavor; pick based on your taste preference—smoky, spicy, or sweet. Want a healthier alternative? Go for a sugar-free option! For Seasoning Garlic powder – Elevates savory depth with minimal effort. Consider using fresh garlic for a more robust flavor! Soy sauce – Adds a rich umami touch; opt for low-sodium to keep it healthier. Optional Flavor Boosters Onion powder – A great way to enhance the overall flavor profile without extra prep. Smoked paprika – It gives the dish a wonderful smoky kick. Green onions – Use these for garnish to add a fresh touch and vibrant color. With just these ingredients, whip up a savory plate of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice that your family will leave the table talking about! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. This creates a delicious crust that adds depth to the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Step 2: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine equal parts honey and BBQ sauce, whisking until the mixture is smooth and well-blended. The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. Set aside half of the sauce for later, as you’ll use it to finish the dish. This sweet and tangy sauce is the star of the show for your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Step 3: Cook the Rice In the same skillet, add uncooked long-grain white rice and lightly toast it for about 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously until it is slightly golden. Next, pour in the chicken broth along with half of your prepared honey BBQ sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the flavors. Step 4: Combine and Cook Once the rice has simmered, gently nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice in the skillet. Cover with a lid and let everything cook together for an additional 15 minutes. This step melds the flavors, ensuring each piece of chicken is infused with the delicious essence of the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice while the rice becomes perfectly tender. Step 5: Finish After 15 minutes, check that the chicken is cooked through and the rice has absorbed the majority of the sauce. If desired, drizzle the remaining honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice for an extra burst of flavor. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving, letting everything meld together for a sumptuous, savory finish to your family meal. Expert Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Sear Perfectly: Ensure chicken thighs are well-seared for maximum flavor. Don’t rush; this golden crust enhances the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice taste. Monitor Breasts: If using chicken breasts, watch cooking time closely to prevent them from drying out. Lower heat and increase cooking time slightly. Sauce Storage: Reserve excess honey BBQ sauce to drizzle before serving. This keeps the dish moist and flavor-packed during reheating. Substitutions Matter: When swapping rice types, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Brown rice will take longer to cook than white rice. Garnish Brightly: Finish your dish with chopped green onions or parsley. Fresh herbs elevate both presentation and taste! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tailor this dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs! Spice it up: Add cayenne or chili powder for a gentle kick that will awaken your taste buds. A touch of heat can transform every bite into an exciting experience. Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas, allowing the sauce to infuse flavor into these protein-packed alternatives. Enjoy the same delightful glaze while keeping it fully plant-based. Gluten-free: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to create a deliciously safe dish for gluten-sensitive diners. Achieving big flavor in a gluten-free way is a win! Low-carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice to make this meal lighter and lower in carbs. The fluffy cauliflower absorbs the honey BBQ sauce, creating a guilt-free delight. Add veggies: Toss in bell peppers or zucchini during cooking for a burst of color and nutrition. These veggies not only enhance the dish visually but also add crunch to every forkful. Herb boost: Fresh cilantro or basil sprinkled on top just before serving enhance the dish’s complexity while adding freshness. It’s a simple way to elevate your meal to new heights! BBQ twist: Try using a spicy BBQ sauce for a flavorful twist. It’s an effortless way to bring more heat to your family’s favorite. If you love a bit of zest, this is an excellent option. Fruity flavor: Add pineapple chunks to the pan to incorporate sweet, tropical notes that create a beautifully balanced dish. For an exciting taste adventure, sweetness is always a lovely contrast to BBQ sauce! For even more delicious options, check out our tasty Honey Butter Chicken for a comforting twist or spicy takes like Hot Honey Chicken! Make Ahead Options These Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken (seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper) up to 24 hours ahead, allowing it to absorb those deep flavors overnight. Additionally, you can pre-cook the rice and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to save time. When it’s mealtime, simply combine the chicken and rice in the skillet, add the prepared honey BBQ sauce, and cook as directed. To maintain quality, make sure to let the finished dish sit for a few minutes before serving, ensuring every bite is just as delicious and comforting as when freshly made! What to Serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Enhance your dining experience with delicious sides that complement this one-pan wonder, creating a fulfilling meal. Crunchy Green Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a zesty vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. The crispness of the vegetables brightens up every bite. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini bring a lovely sweetness and added texture, balancing the sticky glaze in each bite. They also add colorful elements to your plate! Rustic Cornbread: This warm, buttery delight serves as the perfect sidekick to soak up any extra sauce from the chicken and rice. A comforting bread option that appeals to everyone. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and slightly crispy, these breadsticks add an Italian flair while providing a satisfying chewiness that pairs beautifully with the saucy rice. Fruit Medley: A light, refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory dish, making for a delightful palate cleanser between bites of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Sparkling Iced Tea: This refreshing drink offers a hint of sweetness and tartness, complementing the dish without overpowering it. Perfect for summer feasts! Storage Tips for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and rice together to retain moisture and flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight bags or containers for up to 2 months. Make sure to label with the date for convenience. Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to keep the dish moist and flavorful. Serving Suggestions: When ready to enjoy your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice again, consider adding fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing touch! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice? I recommend using chicken thighs for this recipe as they remain juicy and tender throughout cooking. If you prefer chicken breasts, just note they may dry out faster, so keep an eye on the cooking time and consider adjusting it slightly. How do I store leftovers of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice? Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the dish moist and flavorful, I suggest keeping the chicken and rice together when storing. Additionally, if you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze portions in airtight bags or containers for up to 2 months. Can I freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Rice? Absolutely! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely. Then, divide it into portions and place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label them with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the frozen portions overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture. How do I customize this dish for dietary preferences? Very! For a gluten-free option, simply replace the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. If you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas, using the same honey BBQ sauce for flavor. You can also swap the rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative, just be mindful of cooking times. What should I do if the rice isn’t cooking properly? If you find that the rice is undercooked after the suggested cooking time, simply add a little more chicken broth or water, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for another few minutes. Make sure the heat is low enough to avoid burning the rice at the bottom. Always keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary based on the type of rice used! How long can I keep the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in the fridge? You can safely refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and moisture, ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. Reheating gently will help it taste just as delightful when you first made it! Sweet and Savory Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple, one-pan dish that's comforting and full of flavor, perfect for the whole family. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 480 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1.5 pounds Chicken thighs Juicy protein that keeps the dish tender.For the Rice1 cup Long-grain white rice Acts as the perfect base.For the BBQ Sauce1/3 cup Honey Adds natural sweetness.1/3 cup BBQ sauce Choose based on taste preference.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Garlic powder Elevates savory depth.2 tablespoons Soy sauce Opt for low-sodium.Optional Flavor Boosters1 teaspoon Onion powder Enhances overall flavor.1 teaspoon Smoked paprika Gives a wonderful smoky kick.2 stalks Green onions For garnish and color. Equipment Skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsSeason the chicken thighs with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.In a bowl, mix equal parts honey and BBQ sauce until smooth. Set aside half for later.In the same skillet, add uncooked rice and toast for 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth and half of the BBQ sauce, bring to boil, then simmer for 15 minutes.Nestle the seared chicken on top of the rice, cover, and cook for another 15 minutes.Drizzle remaining BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 620mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, ensure chicken thighs are well-seared and consider using fresh garlic for a robust flavor. Adjust cooking times when substituting rice types. Garnish with green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
