Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken fills my kitchen, I can already tell this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is destined to become a favorite. This quick recipe layers juicy chicken thighs or breasts caramelized in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze over fluffy rice, creating a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re juggling a busy weekday or hosting a casual gathering, this budget-friendly meal offers a delightful balance of flavors with minimal cleanup. Plus, you can easily customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand! Are you ready to make this easy, heartwarming dish that will have everyone asking for seconds? Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try? Simplicity at Its Best: You only need one pan for this dish, making cleanup a breeze! Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce creates a dazzlingly flavorful experience everyone will love. Customizable Enjoyment: Feel free to swap in whatever veggies or proteins you have handy—get creative! Budget-Friendly Meals: It’s designed to feed a crowd without breaking the bank, perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Quick Prep Time: In just about 30 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that feels like a warm hug. Don’t forget to check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another easy weeknight option! One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Ingredients Get ready to create a delicious one-pan meal! For the Chicken Boneless Chicken Thighs/Breasts – This is your main protein source, offering heartiness; swap with boneless pork or tofu for variety. Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall taste; feel free to use fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor. Onion Powder – Adds depth; substitute with fresh diced onion if preferred. For the Rice Long-Grain Rice – The base of your dish, it absorbs flavors beautifully; consider brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition. Chicken Broth – Infuses the rice with rich flavor; homemade or low-sodium store-bought options are ideal. For the Sauce BBQ Sauce – Provides a sweet and smoky glaze; choose a quality sauce with natural ingredients for the best flavor. Honey – Amplifies sweetness and caramelization; maple syrup works as an excellent substitute for a different twist. Smoked Paprika – Adds subtle smokiness; it can be omitted if unavailable. For the Vegetables Mixed Vegetables – Fun and nutritious; feel free to swap with any seasonal or fresh vegetables you have on hand. For Garnish Green Onions/Parsley (Optional) – Adds a touch of freshness; use these to elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. With these ingredients ready, you’re on your way to making a heartwarming One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice that delights your taste buds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Step 1: Sear Chicken Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Season your boneless chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate. Step 2: Cook Rice In the same skillet, add the long-grain rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. After toasting, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the BBQ sauce and honey. Stir everything together, allowing the rice to absorb the delightful flavors as it cooks. Step 3: Simmer Together Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed most of the liquid while the chicken remains juicy. Step 4: Add Vegetables Once the rice has simmered, sprinkle your mixed vegetables over the top of the chicken and rice. Cover again and allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the rice is tender and the chicken is heated through. The veggies should be vibrant and just cooked. Step 5: Serve After cooking, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the flavors meld beautifully. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and serve hot, savoring the delightful One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice! One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Variations Feel free to get creative and tailor this dish to your family’s tastes or what you have in your pantry! Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the BBQ glaze for an exciting heat that builds as you eat. If you love heat, this twist will keep you reaching for more! Cheesy Goodness: Top the dish with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty, creamy addition. Pairing cheese with sweet BBQ creates a delightful contrast that is sure to please. Alternative Proteins: Swap the chicken for turkey cutlets or pork chops to mix up the protein while still keeping the dish hearty. Each option offers a unique taste that can refresh this classic meal. Veggie Bonanza: Toss in spinach, corn, or zucchini to amp up the nutritional value and give a pop of color. You’ll enjoy the added crunch and flavorful boost, making it even more satisfying. Coconut Flair: Substitute the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist. This variation gives the rice a sumptuous texture and a hint of sweetness, transforming it into a mini-vacation on your plate! Gluten-Free Delight: Opt for a gluten-free BBQ sauce and pair with quinoa instead of rice to cater to gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor. You’ll feel great enjoying this wholesome meal. Sweet & Savory Fusion: Mix in some pineapple chunks while the rice is cooking for a sweet surprise that pairs wonderfully with BBQ. This vibrant twist adds layers of flavor that dance on your palate. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for an aromatic finish. This simple addition can elevate your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice and bring freshness to each bite. If you’re looking for more inspiration, don’t forget to check out my flavorful Garlic Ginger Chicken for another delightful twist on chicken! What to Serve with One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Transform your delightful meal into a feast by pairing it with these complementary sides that echo the warm flavors of this dish. Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and veggies adds a crunchy texture, balancing the sweetness of the chicken and rice. Creamy Coleslaw: The tangy creaminess cuts through the honey BBQ glaze, providing a delightful contrast that pleases the palate. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for soaking up the savory sauce and rounding out your meal experience. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out earthy flavors and vibrant colors, enhancing the comforting nature of the dish perfectly. Sweet Corn on the Cob: Juicy and sweet, corn complements the dish’s flavors while adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. Iced Lemonade: Refreshing and light, this citrus drink complements the richness of the meal with a zingy burst of flavor. These pairings will elevate your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, ensuring a memorable dining experience for family and friends! How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Fridge: Store leftover One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid excess moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 2-3 months. To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Room Temperature: For safety, avoid leaving the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth. Expert Tips for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Perfectly Sear Chicken: Always sear the chicken until golden brown; this locks in flavors and creates a delicious base for your dish. Toasting Rice Matters: Toasting your rice for 1-2 minutes enhances its nuttiness. Stir constantly to avoid burning, ensuring a delightful texture. Vegetable Timing: When adding veggies, do so gently and cover quickly; this preserves their crispness and vibrant color. Quality BBQ Sauce: Invest in a high-quality BBQ sauce. Its natural ingredients and balanced flavors can elevate your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice significantly. Adjust Liquid Levels: Depending on the rice brand, you may need to adjust the chicken broth amount slightly. Check the cooking instructions for best results. Make Ahead Options These One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the chicken by seasoning it and marinating it in the BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Additionally, you can wash and chop your mixed vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the dish, simply sear the marinated chicken, toast the rice, and follow the rest of the cooking instructions as usual. This way, you’ll still end up with that delicious, comforting meal, but with significantly less evening stress! One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use? Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs or breasts are ideal for this dish, providing tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, you can substitute with boneless pork or even tofu for a vegetarian option. How do I properly store leftovers? To keep your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid building up moisture inside the container. Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice for up to 2-3 months! To do this, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, pressing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. What if my rice is too sticky or undercooked? If your rice turns out sticky, it may have been overcooked or had too much liquid. Next time, ensure the correct ratio of rice to chicken broth is maintained, and monitor the cooking time closely. If it’s undercooked, simply add a splash more broth and continue cooking until tender. Is this dish suitable for people with allergies? Very! This dish can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For gluten allergies, use gluten-free BBQ sauce. Always double-check the ingredients for the sauce and broth, and if you have any specific allergens, feel free to swap in different proteins or skip the veggies as needed. How can I enhance the flavor of the rice? The more the merrier when it comes to flavor! Toasting the rice for 1-2 minutes in the skillet before adding liquids can enhance its nuttiness. Additionally, using homemade chicken broth will add extra depth of flavor that you won’t want to miss! One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a quick, crowd-pleasing meal featuring juicy chicken and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weekdays. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 490 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless Chicken Thighs/Breasts Can swap with boneless pork or tofu1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can be used for stronger flavor1 teaspoon Onion Powder Substitute with fresh diced onion if preferredFor the Rice1 cup Long-Grain Rice Consider brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition2 cups Chicken Broth Homemade or low-sodium store-bought options are idealFor the Sauce1 cup BBQ Sauce Choose a quality sauce with natural ingredients2 tablespoons Honey Maple syrup can be used as a substitute1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can be omitted if unavailableFor the Vegetables2 cups Mixed Vegetables Feel free to swap with any seasonal or fresh vegetablesFor Garnish2 tablespoons Green Onions/Parsley Optional for garnish Equipment Large skillet Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBegin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Season your boneless chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.In the same skillet, add the long-grain rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes while stirring frequently to ensure it doesn’t burn. After toasting, pour in the chicken broth, followed by the BBQ sauce and honey. Stir everything together, allowing the rice to absorb the delightful flavors as it cooks.Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is fluffy and has absorbed most of the liquid while the chicken remains juicy.Once the rice has simmered, sprinkle your mixed vegetables over the top of the chicken and rice. Cover again and allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the rice is tender and the chicken is heated through. The veggies should be vibrant and just cooked.After cooking, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and serve hot. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 490kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, always sear the chicken until golden brown and toast the rice for enhanced nuttiness. Use high-quality BBQ sauce for an elevated flavor experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
