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One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

5 from 102 reviews

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful, one-pan meal that combines tender seared chicken with smoky-sweet honey BBQ sauce, simmered together with rice and mixed vegetables. This hearty dish offers a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, making it a quick and satisfying option for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Grains:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice

Liquids:

  • 2 cups chicken broth

Sauces:

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • 1/4 cup honey

Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables:

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

  1. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the Rice: In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
  3. Simmer Everything Together: Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Add the Vegetables: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice. Cover again and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
  5. Serve & Garnish: Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

Notes

  • Searing the chicken locks in juices and adds flavor.
  • Toasting the rice before simmering brings out nuttier flavor and prevents sogginess.
  • Do not stir aggressively after adding vegetables to avoid mushiness; let them steam gently.
  • Use high-quality BBQ sauce for best flavor balance.
  • Check chicken internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  • Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

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