Delicious Honey BBQ Chicken served over rice with a sweet and smoky glaze.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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why make this recipe

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is quick, tasty, and simple. It mixes sweet honey and smoky BBQ with rice and veggies. It works for busy weeknights and for feeding a small family.

introduction

This dish cooks chicken and rice together so you get one-pan flavor and less mess. It has bold BBQ flavor with a touch of honey for balance. If you like sweet and savory meals, try this similar idea: Pineapple Chicken and Rice for another easy meal.

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

You sear the chicken first, then cook rice in the same pan with broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Put the chicken back on top and let it simmer until the rice is done. For a different sauce idea, see this style: Savory Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls.

Ingredients :

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • 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

Directions :

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

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve hot straight from the pan. Spoon rice and chicken onto plates or into bowls. Add extra BBQ sauce if you want more sauce. A simple side salad or steamed greens fits well. For an easy slow-cooker style side, you might like Slow Cooker Lemon Herb Chicken & Fluffy Rice for another meal idea.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

  • Fridge: Cool to room temp, put in an airtight container, keep up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or microwave until hot. Check chicken is hot all the way through.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

  • Use thighs for more flavor and juicier meat.
  • Rinse rice if you like a less starchy result.
  • Toast the rice briefly for better texture and nutty flavor.
  • Use a tight-fitting lid to keep steam in while cooking.
  • If the rice is not done, add a little more broth and cook a few more minutes.
  • For extra crunch, top with toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts.

variation (if any)

  • Swap chicken for turkey or tofu for a different protein.
  • Add bell peppers or corn for more color.
  • Use spicy BBQ sauce for heat, or a milder sauce if you prefer less spice.
  • Stir in a splash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lime for a different twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes. Brown rice needs more liquid and more time. Add about ¼–½ cup more broth and cook longer until tender.

Q: Can I skip searing the chicken?
A: You can, but searing adds color and flavor. If you skip it, the dish will be milder.

Q: How do I know the chicken is done?
A: Use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (74°C). Or cut into the thickest part to make sure it is not pink.

Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Yes. Add them in the last 5–8 minutes so they stay tender-crisp.

Q: Is this dish good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It stores well and reheats easily for lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

Want more ideas or similar recipes? Check these links for inspiration: Honey BBQ Chicken Bowls · Easy Family Recipes, Honey BBQ Chicken Rice – Gourmet Martha, and BEN’S ORIGINAL™ Street Food Honey BBQ Bean & Rice with ….

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