Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious one-pan meal combining tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and fluffy seasoned rice. It’s the kind of comforting dish I love making when I want something easy, hearty, and full of flavor. The sweet and tangy glaze over juicy chicken with perfectly cooked rice makes this a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is simple but packed with taste. I like that I only need one pan, which makes cleanup quick. The balance of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce gives the chicken a rich, sticky coating that pairs perfectly with the rice. It's customizable too—I can add my favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level depending on who I'm feeding. It’s a reliable recipe that turns out well every time.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

I season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, I sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden. I then remove it from the skillet.
In the same skillet, I toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the grains.
I add chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey, stirring everything together.
I place the chicken back in the pan, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
I add in the mixed vegetables, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving, then garnish with green onions or parsley if I like.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use brown rice or jasmine rice for a different flavor and texture.
For a vegetarian option, I swap out the chicken for tofu or plant-based protein.
I like to toss in bell peppers, corn, or peas for added color and nutrients.
When I want a spicy version, I mix in chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I add a little chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist. The microwave works fine, but I sometimes use the stovetop for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, I can, but I make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What can I use if I don’t have BBQ sauce?

I mix ketchup with honey, vinegar, and a pinch of smoked paprika to create a simple substitute.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes, I can prepare the components ahead and store them in the fridge until I’m ready to cook.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

It is. I let it cool completely, then freeze it in portions. I reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, I can add shredded rotisserie chicken during the last few minutes of simmering just to heat it through.

Conclusion

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a flavorful, filling dish I can rely on any day of the week. With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, I get a warm, comforting meal that everyone enjoys. It's flexible, tasty, and always hits the spot.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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Author: Sue
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Dish
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

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Description

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful one-pan meal featuring juicy chicken glazed with a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, served over perfectly seasoned rice with vegetables.

Instructions

Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden, then remove from the skillet.
In the same skillet, toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the grains.
Add chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey, stirring to combine.
Return the chicken to the pan, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add in the mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes until the rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.

Notes

You can use brown rice or jasmine rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Swap chicken with tofu or plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in portions.
Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version—just heat it through at the end.