Description: This Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice recipe is a delightful one-pan meal that combines the smoky-sweet flavors of barbecue with tender chicken and fluffy rice. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and optional vegetables in one easy-to-clean-up package. The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a sticky, flavorful glaze that coats the chicken and infuses the rice with a delicious taste. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups chicken broth, preferably low-sodium
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind, a mesquite flavor is good for smokiness)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- Optional: 1 cup mixed vegetables (like frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers)
- For garnish: Sliced green onions (scallions) and/or sesame seeds
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure each piece is well coated with the seasoning mix for even distribution of flavor.
Step 2: Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer (avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will steam the chicken rather than sear it) and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through. Browning the chicken adds depth of flavor to the dish. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Don’t worry about cooking the chicken completely at this stage; it will finish cooking in the rice mixture.
Step 3: Toast Rice: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, the browned bits add flavor!), add the rinsed and drained rice. Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent and smells toasty. Toasting the rice adds a nutty flavor and helps it cook more evenly.
Step 4: Add Liquids & Sauce: Carefully pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. The chicken broth provides a flavorful base for the rice, while the BBQ sauce and honey create the signature sweet and savory flavor profile. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor. If using soy sauce, add it now for an extra layer of umami.
Step 5: Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Returning the chicken to the pan at this stage allows it to absorb the flavors of the sauce and rice. Nestle the seared chicken pieces into the rice mixture.
Step 6: Cook Rice & Chicken: Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. A tight-fitting lid is crucial for trapping steam and cooking the rice evenly. If adding optional mixed vegetables, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This prevents the vegetables from becoming too mushy. Resist the urge to lift the lid while simmering to ensure even rice cooking.
Step 7: Rest and Fluff: Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to fully absorb any remaining liquid and helps the flavors meld.
Step 8: Serve: Uncover and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Fluffing the rice separates the grains and prevents them from clumping together. Divide among serving bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Garnish adds visual appeal and a pop of fresh flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is a weeknight winner for several reasons:
- One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in a single pan, minimizing cleanup.
- Flavorful and Balanced: The combination of sweet honey, smoky BBQ sauce, and savory chicken creates a delightful flavor profile that appeals to both kids and adults.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by using different types of BBQ sauce, adding various vegetables, or adjusting the level of sweetness.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are readily available and relatively inexpensive, making it a great option for budget-conscious cooks.
- Quick and Easy: From prep to table, this recipe can be ready in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
COOKING Rating
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a complete meal on its own.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve with cornbread or biscuits for a comforting Southern-inspired meal.
Tips:
- For even cooking, use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the rice, as it will become mushy.
- If the rice is cooking too quickly, reduce the heat to low and add a little more chicken broth.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of BBQ sauce to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
- Protein: 30-40 grams per serving
- Sodium: 500-700 mg per serving (depending on the BBQ sauce and broth used)
Conclusion
This Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice recipe is a delicious, easy, and customizable one-pan meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its sweet and savory flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. Add about an extra cup of chicken broth and increase the simmering time to 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
- A: Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, sear the chicken as directed, then transfer it to the slow cooker along with the rice, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce (if using). Cook on low for 3-4 hours, or until the rice is tender. Add the mixed vegetables during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Q: What kind of BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
- A: The best BBQ sauce depends on your personal preference. A mesquite-flavored BBQ sauce adds a smoky depth, while a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce provides a more balanced flavor. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for a bit of heat. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite!
- Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
- A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as diced bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms. Add them along with the optional mixed vegetables during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. You may need to add a little bit of chicken broth to moisten the rice when reheating.
