One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a deliciously simple meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs simmered with flavorful rice and a sweet-savory BBQ sauce come together in one skillet for easy cleanup and maximum taste.

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 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 over the chicken in the skillet.
3. Step 3: Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the sauce and chicken.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover 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, spread the mixed vegetables over the top of the rice and cover to allow steaming.
6. Step 6: Once done, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce and honey for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use brown rice for a nuttier taste—but increase the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• Swap mixed vegetables with your favorite fresh veggies like bell peppers or corn for added freshness.
• Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey to suit your taste.

Storage

Store leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster than thighs.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This one-pan dish reheats well and makes for convenient, flavorful leftovers perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 95 reviews

A delicious and easy One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe featuring tender seared chicken thighs cooked in a flavorful mix of BBQ sauce, honey, and chicken broth, combined with long-grain rice and steamed vegetables for a wholesome, hearty meal all made in a single skillet.

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

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Rice and Sauce:

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• ½ cup BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup honey

Vegetables:

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Instructions

1. Season and Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until nicely browned and cooked through.
2. Prepare the BBQ Honey Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the seared chicken in the skillet.
3. Add Rice and Broth: Add the long-grain rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.
4. Simmer and Cook Rice: Bring the contents of the skillet to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
5. Steam the Vegetables: About 5 minutes before the rice finishes cooking, add the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken. Cover and allow the vegetables to steam and warm through during the remaining cooking time.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve the chicken and vegetable rice mixture hot.

Notes

• You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference; thighs offer more tenderness and flavor.
• Frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly and can be added directly without thawing.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially the salt as some BBQ sauces are salty.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce mix.
• If you prefer, brown rice can be used; however, cooking time and liquid amount may need adjustment.

Keywords: one-pan meal, BBQ chicken, honey BBQ chicken, chicken rice skillet, easy dinner, skillet meal, chicken and rice, weeknight dinner