This easy one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice meal is a real winner! Juicy chicken cooked in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, paired with fluffy rice, makes dinner a breeze.
This dish is perfect for busy nights since you only need one pan to cook everything. I love how the flavors blend together, making each bite super tasty! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are juicy and cook well. If you prefer, you can substitute breasts for a leaner option. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out faster.
Honey: The sweetness it adds is incredible! If you’re looking for alternatives, maple syrup or agave syrup works wonderfully too. They provide similar sweetness with different flavor notes.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite! But if you’re out, mix ketchup with a dash of Worcestershire sauce and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a tasty homemade version. You can adjust these to suit your taste.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives a perfect texture here, but medium-grain or jasmine rice can also be used. Just follow the cooking ratios appropriately.
Vegetables: Bell peppers add color and crunch. Feel free to experiment with other veggies like corn, peas, or even spinach to up the nutrition!
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
To keep the chicken juicy, the key is to appropriately sear it and not overcook it. After seasoning, cook it on medium-high heat for just a few minutes on each side until it’s golden brown.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Allow it to rest off the heat covered for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the juices redistribute.
With these tips, you’ll have succulent chicken every time!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional, for color and flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal requires about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have a mouth-watering dinner ready in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs (or breasts) with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika on both sides. This step ensures all that flavor seeps in!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Sear for about 4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside for now.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan, add your uncooked rice. Stir and sauté for 1-2 minutes. This toasting step will help bring out the flavors in the rice.
4. Add Liquids and Combine:
Next, pour in the chicken broth, honey, and barbecue sauce. Give everything a good stir to mix it well!
5. Return the Chicken:
Now, place the seared chicken thighs back in the pan on top of the rice mixture. If you’re using bell peppers, sprinkle those on top as well—this adds a nice color!
6. Cook It All Together:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is cooked through and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes. This helps everything become nice and fluffy!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your delicious dish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your easy, flavorful one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, you can also use chicken breasts or even bone-in pieces. Just be mindful of the cooking time; larger pieces will take longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a sweet alternative. They will add a similar sweetness but with a slightly different flavor profile.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
For a kick of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the barbecue sauce before mixing it all together. You could also use a spicy barbecue sauce instead of a sweet one!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover honey BBQ chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
