SPREAD LOVE

why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a wonderful dish that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a delightful honey BBQ sauce, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. It’s comforting, satisfying, and can easily feed your family or friends. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is a breeze!

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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

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 to the pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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.
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.
After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice.
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).
Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice.
Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot, straight from the pan. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a simple side salad. Garnishing with chopped green onions or parsley adds a nice touch and fresh flavor to the dish.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

To store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, let it cool completely first. Then, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before eating.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables to your liking. Bell peppers, peas, or corn all work well in this dish.
Try different BBQ sauces for varied flavors—some can be spicy, sweet, or smoky!

variation

You can make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice with other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Try swapping the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts with chicken drumsticks or wings. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. What if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use water or vegetable broth instead. It will still taste delicious, but the flavor may be a bit milder.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice ahead of time. Just follow the directions, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it properly before serving.