This Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty and fun meal! It’s made with sweet honey BBQ sauce, juicy chicken, and fluffy rice, topped with your favorite veggies.
I love how simple it is to whip up this bowl after a long day. Just cook the chicken, mix in the sauce, and serve over rice. Dinner is ready in no time! 🍚🐔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rice: You can use either white or brown rice for this dish. Brown rice adds a bit more fiber, which is great! Quinoa is a nice alternative too if you’re looking for something different.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a quick choice, but thighs work well too! They tend to be juicier. You can also use precooked rotisserie chicken; just add it to the sauce to heat through.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade sauce! If you’re looking for a healthier option, look for sugar-free BBQ sauce or make a homemade one. You can also try teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist.
Honey: If you need a vegan option or don’t have honey, maple syrup can be a good substitute for sweetness.
Vegetables: Swap steamed broccoli and shredded carrots for any veggies you love! Bell peppers, snap peas, or corn add great flavor and crunch too!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right is key to this dish. Here’s how to ensure it’s cooked perfectly:
- Start with a hot skillet. Preheat it before adding the oil and chicken.
- Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan as it may steam instead of sear.
- Use a meat thermometer to check. The internal temperature should be 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices in and makes it more tender.
With these tips, your honey BBQ chicken will be delicious and tender every time!
For the Rice Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped cilantro
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes to cook everything. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to the package instructions. Once it’s fluffy and ready, keep it warm while you prepare the chicken.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and honey. Stir until they are well mixed together. This will be the delicious dressing for your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will give the chicken a nice flavor before cooking.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and have a nice golden color.
5. Add the Honey BBQ Sauce:
Lower the heat slightly and pour the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken. Use tongs to turn the chicken, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes while the sauce gets warm and sticky.
6. Slice the Chicken:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
7. Assemble Your Bowl:
In a bowl, start by adding a generous scoop of rice. Top it with the sliced chicken, steamed broccoli, shredded carrots, and sliced green onions. Make it as colorful and fun as you like!
8. Add Finishing Touches:
If you’d like, sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped cilantro on top for extra flavor and presentation. Now, your Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is ready to enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious and easy meal!
Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
FAQ for Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Different Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, tofu, or even shrimp. Adjust the cooking time accordingly; shrimp cooks quickly, and tofu should be pressed and cubed before cooking for the best texture!
What Kind of Rice Works Best?
Both white and brown rice work great in this dish! If you’re in a hurry, using instant rice or pre-cooked rice can save time. For a low-carb option, you could also use cauliflower rice!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep everything moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce, or even serve with sliced jalapeños on top. Adjust according to your spice preference!
