Introduction

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful and easy one-pot meal that combines tender chicken thighs, sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.

A close-up view of a dish with two main layers, served in a white bowl on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is light brown fried rice with a slightly sticky texture, showing individual grains mixed with small bits of vegetables. On top, cubed chicken pieces are coated in a shiny dark brown sauce that looks thick and glossy. Bright green chopped scallions are sprinkled evenly over the chicken, adding a fresh contrast to the caramel color of the sauce. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: In a large skillet or pot, brown the chicken thighs over medium heat until golden on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Add the rice to the skillet and toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture. If using, add the mixed vegetables on top.
Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Tips & Variations

Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer leaner meat; adjust cooking time accordingly.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of cayenne for extra tang and heat.
For a smoky flavor, use smoked BBQ sauce and add a few drops of liquid smoke.
Use frozen mixed vegetables to save prep time and add color.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

The dish shows two main layers on a white round plate placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is cooked brown rice, loose and slightly shiny, covering the entire plate. On top is a thick layer of small, bite-sized chicken pieces coated in a glossy dark brown sauce that reflects the light. Bright green chopped spring onions are sprinkled evenly over the chicken, adding fresh color contrast. The close-up view highlights the texture of the tender chicken and the rice grains. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of rice for this recipe?

Yes, though cooking times and liquid amounts may vary. Long-grain rice works best for even cooking and texture.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just ensure that the BBQ sauce you use is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 62 reviews

A delicious and easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe featuring tender boneless chicken thighs cooked with honey and BBQ sauce, served over fluffy long-grain rice and chicken broth. This comforting one-pot meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, optionally enhanced with mixed vegetables and garnished with fresh chopped green onions.

Author: Zane
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

Chicken and Sauce

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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

Rice and Vegetables

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)

Garnish

Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste, ensuring each piece is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Sear the chicken: In a large skillet or pan over medium heat, add a small amount of oil and sear the chicken thighs until golden brown on each side, about 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in juices and adds a rich flavor to the meat.
Add sauce and deglaze the pan: Stir together the BBQ sauce and honey in a bowl, then pour over the chicken in the skillet. Use a spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan, incorporating all that flavor.
Add rice and broth: Pour the rice and chicken broth into the skillet with the chicken and sauce, spreading the rice evenly to submerge it properly. If using, stir in the mixed vegetables.
Simmer and cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer gently for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
Rest and garnish: Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs provide more moisture and flavor.
Adding mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers boosts nutrition and color.
If the rice isn’t fully cooked after 20 minutes, add a splash of broth and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
For extra smoky flavor, consider using smoked paprika or adding a splash of liquid smoke to the sauce.
Use gluten-free BBQ sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, One-Pot Meal, Chicken and Rice, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Recipe, BBQ Sauce Chicken