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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

4.5 from 99 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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