This Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is full of flavor and super simple to make! Juicy grilled chicken is bathed in sticky honey BBQ sauce, served over fluffy rice, and topped with fresh veggies.
I love how quick this meal comes together! Perfect for busy nights or when you just want something tasty without a lot of fuss. Plus, who can resist that sweet and tangy BBQ goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for a quicker option, consider using rotisserie chicken. Just shred it up and mix it with the honey BBQ sauce!
Honey: Honey brings sweetness to the dish. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave nectar works well, though they may give a slightly different flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite variety for the right flavor! If you’re out, you can mix ketchup, a splash of vinegar, and a little brown sugar as a quick alternative.
Rice: While I recommend white or brown rice for convenience, quinoa or cauliflower rice can be good alternatives for a healthier twist.
Vegetables: Broccoli and carrots are great, but feel free to swap in any veggies you like or have on hand, such as bell peppers or snap peas.
How Do You Cook Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken right is key to this dish! Follow these steps for juicy chicken every time:
- Make sure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Season it well with salt and pepper – don’t skip this step, it boosts the flavor!
- Heat your skillet over medium heat. Too high, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks.
- Cook each side for 6-7 minutes. You want a golden brown crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
After cooking, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking, making it a quick total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. You can have dinner ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and barbecue sauce until well combined. This will be the sweet and tangy sauce for your chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor. Ensure they are well coated.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour the honey BBQ sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes so the sauce thickens and coats the chicken nicely.
5. Slice the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. Then, slice it into strips to make it easy to serve.
6. Assemble the Rice Bowls:
In serving bowls, divide the cooked rice evenly. Top each bowl with the sliced chicken, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and chopped green onions for a burst of color and crunch.
7. Drizzle with Sauce:
Finally, drizzle any extra honey BBQ sauce from the pan over the assembled bowls to enhance the flavor even more.
8. Dig In!
Enjoy your easy, flavorful Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl! It’s sweet, savory, and packed with goodness.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can, but it’s essential to thaw the chicken completely before cooking. The best way to do this is to place it in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, agave nectar or maple syrup can work well, though they may provide a slightly different flavor. You can also use a combination of brown sugar and water to mimic the sweetness of honey.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or additional BBQ sauce to keep it moist.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the bowls with your favorite vegetables. Bell peppers, snap peas, or corn would all be great additions to enhance flavor and texture. Just toss them in while the chicken cooks or steam them alongside the broccoli.
