Description
This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful and convenient meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken thighs or breasts are seared and simmered in a savory mixture of BBQ sauce, honey, and chicken broth along with long-grain rice and mixed vegetables, creating a deliciously satisfying dish cooked all in one skillet.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 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 Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Sauce
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup honey
Instructions
- Season and Sear 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 on the outside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the browned chicken in the skillet.
- Add Rice and Broth: Add the long-grain rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients and ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender.
- Add Vegetables: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, place the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken to steam through as the dish finishes cooking.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooking is complete, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, mix gently if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference; thighs will be juicier and more flavorful.
- Frozen mixed vegetables work well, but fresh vegetables can be substituted for extra crunch.
- Adjust the amount of honey and BBQ sauce to your preferred sweetness and tanginess.
- Make sure the skillet you use has a tight-fitting lid for best results when simmering rice.
- If desired, garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or green onions before serving.
