One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Introduction

This one-pan bold honey BBQ chicken rice is a perfect weeknight meal that’s both flavorful and easy to make. Combining tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and savory rice, it delivers comfort in every bite with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup honey
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture evenly over the seared chicken in the skillet.
3. Step 3: Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine everything.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
5. Step 5: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, scatter the mixed vegetables over the top of the rice and chicken. Cover again to allow the vegetables to steam.
6. Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken thighs for more juiciness and flavor, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
• Swap mixed vegetables for your favorites like bell peppers, corn, or peas to customize the dish.
• If you like extra smoky flavor, add a dash of chipotle powder or smoked salt.
• For a spicier twist, mix in some hot sauce with the BBQ and honey.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?

Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook. Increase the cooking time and liquid amount accordingly, and you may need to simmer for about 40 minutes instead of 20.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Just ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten. Most other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 58 reviews

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful and convenient meal combining tender seared chicken thighs with a tangy honey BBQ sauce, cooked together with rice and mixed vegetables for a complete and hearty dish. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Grains

• 1 cup long-grain rice

Liquids & Sauces

• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup honey

Vegetables

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season and Sear Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and partially cooked through.
2. Prepare Honey BBQ Sauce: While the chicken is searing, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl until well combined to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
3. Add Sauce to Chicken: Pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet, distributing it evenly.
4. Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked long-grain rice and chicken broth with the chicken and sauce. Ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid and evenly distributed.
5. Simmer and Cook Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
6. Add Vegetables: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mixed vegetables evenly over the top of the rice and chicken, cover again, and allow them to steam until tender.
7. Rest and Serve: After cooking, remove from heat and let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, mix gently to combine the vegetables, and serve warm.

Notes

• Use skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat; breasts can be used but may be less tender.
• Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly and save prep time.
• Adjust BBQ sauce and honey quantities to taste for desired sweetness and boldness.
• Ensure the skillet used has a tight-fitting lid to cook the rice properly.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, one-pan meal, chicken rice skillet, quick dinner, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, weeknight meal