This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a tasty dinner you’ll love. The chicken is juicy and cooked right in the sweet BBQ sauce, while the rice soaks up all the yummy flavors!
It’s a breeze to make in one pan, which means less cleanup for me. Plus, my family always asks for seconds. Pair it with some veggies for a complete meal that feels like a hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs bring great flavor and are juicy. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they might dry out a bit faster. You can also use tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
BBQ Sauce: Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your taste. Sweet, smoky, or spicy, it all works! If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you could mix ketchup with a little vinegar, smoked paprika, and honey as a substitute.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here because it cooks just right. You could use brown rice, but check the cooking time since it requires more liquid and time. Quinoa is also a healthy alternative!
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken. If you need a substitute, maple syrup or agave syrup can work well too.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Juicy?
Cooking chicken perfectly is crucial for this dish! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and spices. This enhances flavor.
- Sear the chicken until golden brown but not fully cooked. It will finish cooking while simmering with the rice, keeping it moist.
- After simmering, let the pan sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps the chicken retain moisture and the rice to fluff up nicely.
How to Make Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes for cooking. So, you’re looking at around 40 minutes total from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This will give it lovely flavor. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add your seasoned chicken. Sear each piece for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown but not fully cooked through. This adds a nice color and flavor. Then, remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan, add your rice. Toast it lightly for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This helps the rice absorb more flavor when cooking!
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In a bowl, mix together the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir it well and then pour this mixture over the toasted rice in the pan. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is combined.
5. Cook Together:
Next, place the seared chicken pieces right on top of the rice. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will cook the rice and finish cooking the chicken perfectly.
6. Let It Rest:
After 20 minutes, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps everything set and the flavors meld together.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, before serving, garnish your dish with some chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy your easy one-pan meal!
Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, and with this recipe, minimal cleanup gives you more time to relax. Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Use about 1 ½ cups of chicken broth and simmer for about 30-35 minutes until tender.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce, you can mix ketchup with a bit of vinegar, honey, and smoked paprika for a quick substitute. Alternatively, teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce can also work for a different flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking!
