This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a real winner! It’s packed with juicy chicken, sweet honey, and tangy BBQ sauce all cooked together with fluffy rice.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are my go-to for this dish. They stay juicy! If you only have chicken breasts, those work too. You can also use bone-in pieces, but cooking times will vary.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to really personalize the flavor! If you want to reduce sugar, you could try a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is standard here. However, you can substitute with brown rice, just remember to add a bit more liquid and extend cooking time.
Honey: While honey adds a nice touch of sweetness, maple syrup is a great alternative if you’re out of honey or want a different taste.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly tender chicken is crucial for this meal! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by seasoning your chicken well, enhancing its flavor.
- Sear the chicken on medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. This helps lock in juices and adds nice color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is the safe mark!
- Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and about 25–30 minutes to cook, making it a quick and satisfying option for dinner. Total time is around 40 minutes, but it’s mostly hands-off while everything simmers together in one pan!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to make them flavorful.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet or wide pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 3–4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown. Then, remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan, add the uncooked white rice. Toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. This step adds a lovely flavor to the rice!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Add the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey to the pan with the toasted rice. Stir everything together so that the rice is well-coated.
5. Return the Chicken:
Place the browned chicken back in the pan, laying it on top of the rice mixture. This will allow the chicken to cook through while keeping it juicy!
6. Cook with a Lid:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
7. Finish Cooking:
If there’s any excess liquid left after lifting the lid, let it cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow everything to thicken nicely.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice!
This dish is perfect for a cozy night in, and it’s a real crowd-pleaser!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking for even cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the quick method of submerging it in cold water in a sealed bag.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce?
No problem! You can make a quick homemade BBQ sauce by mixing ketchup with a bit of apple cider vinegar, honey, and your favorite spices. Alternatively, teriyaki sauce can also work for a delicious variation!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or warm in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want a kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce. Alternatively, sprinkling red pepper flakes on top before serving can also spice things up!
