Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
Introduction
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender chicken thighs with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, perfectly cooked rice, and optional veggies. It’s a comforting and easy dish ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying without the 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
- Step 1: Season the chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- 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.
- Step 3: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, and stir well to blend the flavors.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes to enhance its nuttiness.
- Step 5: Add chicken broth and half of the honey BBQ sauce mixture to the rice. Stir gently to mix.
- Step 6: Return the chicken to the skillet and pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top.
- Step 7: Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and the chicken to cook through.
- Step 8: Add mixed vegetables if using, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender and vegetables are heated.
- Step 9: Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving.
- Step 10: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute chicken thighs with breast meat for a leaner option, but watch cooking time as breasts cook faster and can dry out.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for more depth in the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Use frozen mixed vegetables if fresh are unavailable; add them directly to the skillet during the final cooking step.
- For extra smoky flavor, try smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke to the sauce blend.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of long-grain rice?
Yes, white rice works well in this recipe, but be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the rice variety to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Ensure your BBQ sauce and any added sauces like soy sauce are labeled gluten-free to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
PrintHoney BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a flavorful, one-pan meal combining tender chicken thighs with sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, honey, and perfectly cooked rice. Enhanced with aromatic spices and optional mixed vegetables, it’s a comforting and easy dinner option that balances savory and sweet tastes in every bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl or on a plate, season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil if desired. Place the seasoned chicken thighs in the hot pan and sear them for about 3–4 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust. Once seared, remove the chicken and set it aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well until all ingredients are blended smoothly to create a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze.
- Toast the Rice: Using the same skillet, add the uncooked long-grain rice and toast it over medium heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. This step enhances the rice’s nutty flavor.
- Add Broth and Sauce to Rice: Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and half of the prepared BBQ honey sauce into the skillet with the toasted rice. Stir to evenly distribute the liquid and sauce.
- Return Chicken to Pan: Nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice. Then pour the remaining BBQ honey sauce over the chicken.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 15 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the rice to absorb most of the liquid.
- Cook With Vegetables: Add the optional mixed vegetables to the skillet, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes to finish steaming. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Mixed vegetables can include carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers depending on preference.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the sauce.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth and BBQ sauce for a healthier, lower salt version.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, Chicken Rice, One-Pan Meal, Easy Dinner, BBQ Sauce Recipe, Chicken Thighs, Comfort Food
