Introduction

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple, flavorful meal that combines tender chicken thighs with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all cooked together with rice and vegetables. Perfect for a busy weeknight, it delivers comfort and convenience in one pot.

A close-up of a dish in a white bowl filled with cooked rice as the bottom layer, light brown in color with a soft texture. On top, there are many pieces of grilled chicken, golden brown with some dark charred spots, covered in a shiny dark brown sauce. Small green herb leaves are scattered on the chicken, adding a splash of bright green color. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
Step 3: Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 4: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice. Cover again and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs add more flavor and stay juicier.
If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the BBQ mixture.
Fresh vegetables like bell peppers or corn can be added along with or instead of the mixed vegetables.
Make sure to toast the rice well for a nuttier flavor and better texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water can help keep the rice moist when reheating.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a dish in a white bowl filled with a base layer of cooked rice, light brown in color with a fluffy texture. On top, there are several pieces of grilled chicken, golden brown with a shiny, sticky glaze that looks dark brown and rich. The chicken pieces are unevenly placed, some touching and others apart, with small bits of green fresh herbs sprinkled over them, adding a bright green contrast. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?

Yes, but increase the simmering time and the amount of broth accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid.

What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?

You can use teriyaki sauce, a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, or even a spicy tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.