Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

There’s something unbelievably comforting about a steaming plate of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. I mean, who can resist juicy chicken thighs bathed in a sweet and smoky sauce, alongside fluffy rice? This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, not just for its flavor but for the memories it stirs—family dinners, casual gatherings, or simply those weeks when cooking feels like a chore. Each time I make it, I’m reminded of the first time I experimented with BBQ sauce and honey, and how it turned an ordinary meal into something extraordinary.

Why you’ll love this recipe

Let’s talk flavor! This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is like a warm hug for your tastebuds, combining the richness of chicken thighs and the sweet, tangy notes of BBQ and honey. Imagine sinking your fork into that tender chicken, combined with the comforting goodness of fluffy rice. This dish is not just easy to prepare, but it also creates a symphony of flavors that makes it an instant family favorite. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to kick back and enjoy it with loved ones.

In addition to being delicious, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can throw in whatever mixed veggies you have on hand, giving it a nutritious boost. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want to whip up something satisfying without pulling out every pot and pan in the house. Who wouldn’t want that?

Gather these ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs: The star of the show! They’re juicy and packed with flavor, perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce. Feel free to swap for chicken breasts or even tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.

• 1 cup long-grain rice: The foundation of this dish, soaking up all those savory flavors. You could go for jasmine rice if you’re feeling fancy, but honestly, any long-grain variety will work great!

• 2 cups chicken broth: This is where the magic happens! Broth adds depth to the rice, making each grain flavorful. If you want to keep things vegetarian, vegetable broth is a solid substitute.

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce: Use your favorite brand! Whether it’s tangy or spicy, this sauce is the flavor bomb for the dish. For a healthier version, look for a low-sugar BBQ sauce, or you can even make your own.

• 1/4 cup honey: This sweet element balances out the smoky BBQ sauce, making the dish irresistible. You can swap in maple syrup if you’re avoiding refined sugars.

• 1 tsp garlic powder and 1 tsp onion powder: These pantry staples add depth and fragrance to the chicken. Fresh garlic and onion work too; just sauté them in the pan before adding the chicken.

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: It kicks up the smokiness, giving the dish a rich, hearty flavor. If you only have regular paprika, no worries—it will still be delicious!

• Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your preference; it makes a world of difference.

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional): Toss in whatever’s in your fridge—carrots, peas, bell peppers—get creative!

• Chopped green onions for garnish: These add a fresh note at the end, making the plate pop with color.

The cooking process explained

Alright, let’s get started on this delicious journey! First, season your chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Trust me, let those flavors meld for a couple of minutes. Now, heat up a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes per side until they turn that gorgeous golden brown. This is a crucial step—not only does it add texture, but it makes the dish visually appealing. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside for now.

In the same pan, mix your BBQ sauce, honey, a splash of soy sauce, and if you’ve got it, minced fresh garlic for an extra flavor kick. Stir this delightful concoction and let it coax out all those yummy bits left from the chicken.

Now, here’s where a little magic happens: toss in the uncooked rice and give it a light toast for about 1–2 minutes. This simple step brings a toasty aroma that’s totally irresistible. Pour in your chicken broth and half of that gorgeous BBQ-honey mix. Stir it together like you mean it!

It’s time to return the chicken to the pan. Pour the rest of that tangy sauce over everything (don’t be stingy; you want all that flavor!), cover it up, and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. This is where patience pays off—the rice absorbs all that saucy goodness.

After 15 minutes, throw in your mixed veggies (if using), cover once more, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving—this gives the flavors time to settle. Garnish with chopped green onions to bring a cheerful finish to your dish.

How to serve it

Now that you’ve made this masterpiece, how to best enjoy it? Serve the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice straight from the pan for that cozy, family-style feel. You can plate it up with some extra BBQ sauce drizzled on the chicken if you’d like that extra oomph!

Pair this dish with a simple side salad for crunch or some crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of feta cheese? The creamy elements contrast beautifully with the honey BBQ flavors.

Keeping leftovers fresh

Got some leftovers? Lucky you! This dish reheats beautifully. Allow it to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container, where it can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or over the stovetop until heated through. If it looks a bit dry, a splash of chicken broth or water can work wonders.

If you want to store it for longer, you can freeze it! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and it should keep for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label them, so you don’t end up wondering what’s hiding in your freezer!

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate this dish to a whole new level, here are a few insider tips:

• Don’t skip toasting the rice: It’s a game-changer! This simple act adds a lovely nutty flavor that no one will see coming.
• Mix it up: Feel free to get creative with your mixed vegetables. Broccoli, corn, or even some diced zucchini can easily sneak in for added nutrition.
• Experiment with spices: If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of cayenne for some heat or a dash of cumin for an earthy touch.

Recipe variations

Looking to customize your honey BBQ chicken delight? Here are a few variations to mix things up:

• Spice it up: Add some heat with a few jalapeño slices cooked right in, or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
• Switch the protein: Try using shrimp or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
• Herbed twist: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley at the end to bring a freshness that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the BBQ.

Ingredients list

1. 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2. 1 cup long-grain rice
3. 2 cups chicken broth
4. 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
5. 1/4 cup honey
6. 1 tsp garlic powder
7. 1 tsp onion powder
8. 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
9. Salt and pepper to taste
10. 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
11. Chopped green onions for garnish

Directions to follow

1. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden.
3. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. In a bowl, mix together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
5. In the same pan, toast uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes.
6. Add chicken broth and half of the sauce. Stir well.
7. Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce on top.
8. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
9. Add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
10. Let sit for 5 minutes before garnishing with green onions and serving hot.

Your questions answered

1. How long does this take to prepare?
   From starting to finish, you’re looking at about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

2. Can I use brown rice instead?
   Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time and liquid—brown rice generally needs more time and water.

3. What vegetables work best in this dish?
   The sky’s the limit! Carrots, peas, bell peppers, or even broccoli work wonderfully.

4. Can I make this in advance?
   Sure thing! You can make the dish a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

5. What should I serve alongside it?
   A simple salad or some crusty bread for dipping would pair beautifully with the dish.

Every time I make this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, I’m reminded of what cooking is all about—the joy of bringing people together around the table. It’s comforting, it’s delicious, and it’s downright easy—what’s not to love? I can’t wait for you to dive into this recipe and make it your own. Don’t forget to experiment with your own twists and share your experiences; we’re all part of one big delicious family here!

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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Cooking Method: Grilling, Sauteing Cuisine: Asian Courses: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time Cook Time Rest Time Total Time 40 hrs

Servings: 4 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 600

Description

A delightful blend of juicy chicken thighs bathed in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, served over fluffy rice. This one-pan wonder is perfect for family dinners and weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (Can substitute with chicken breasts or tofu.)
• 1 cup long-grain rice (Jasmine rice also works well.)
• 2 cups chicken broth (Vegetable broth is a good substitute.)
• ¹⁄₂ cup BBQ sauce (Use your favorite brand or make your own.)
• ¹⁄₄ cup honey (Maple syrup can be a substitute.)
• 1 tsp garlic powder (Fresh minced garlic is also an option.)
• 1 tsp onion powder (Fresh onion can be sautéed in the pan.)
• ¹⁄₂ tsp smoked paprika (Regular paprika works too.)
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional) (Carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.)
• to garnish chopped green onions (Adds color and freshness.)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Season the Chicken

   Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   Let flavors meld for a couple of minutes.
   Mark as complete

2. Sear the Chicken

   Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
   Remove and set aside.
   Mark as complete

3. Make the Sauce

   In the same pan, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce.
   Add minced garlic for extra flavor.
   Mark as complete

4. Toast the Rice

   Add uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
   Then add chicken broth and half of the sauce.
   Mark as complete

5. Simmer

   Return chicken to the pan, add remaining sauce, cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
   Add mixed vegetables in the last 5 minutes.
   Mark as complete

6. Finishing Touch

   Let sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with green onions and serve.
   Mark as complete

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 600kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 20g31%

Saturated Fat 6g30%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 140mg47%

Sodium 900mg38%

Potassium 800mg23%

Total Carbohydrate 70g24%

Dietary Fiber 3g12%

Sugars 10g

Protein 30g60%

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Vitamin A 500 IU

Vitamin C 30 mg

Calcium 40 mg

Iron 2 mg

Vitamin D 0 IU

Vitamin E 1 IU

Vitamin K 2 mcg

Thiamin 0.5 mg

Riboflavin 0.3 mg

Niacin 6 mg

Vitamin B6 0.5 mg

Folate 30 mcg

Vitamin B12 0 mcg

Biotin 0 mcg

Pantothenic Acid 1 mg

Phosphorus 300 mg

Iodine 0 mcg

Magnesium 30 mg

Zinc 2 mg

Selenium 30 mcg

Copper 0.2 mg

Manganese 0.5 mg

Chromium 0 mcg

Molybdenum 0 mcg

Chloride 0 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Feel free to customize with different veggies or proteins.

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, one-pan meal, comfort food, chicken recipe, easy dinner