This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a simple meal that brings sweet and smoky flavors together. It’s easy to make, and you’ll love the juicy chicken with fluffy rice!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: I love using thighs for their juiciness, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you want to make this dish lighter, skinless, bone-in pieces are another option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for this recipe, as it cooks well and absorbs flavors nicely. If you prefer, you can substitute it with brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce adds a lot of character here. For a kick, try a spicy or tangy version. If you’re looking to avoid sugar, a sugar-free BBQ sauce works great too!
Honey: Honey gives that sweet taste but can be swapped with maple syrup or agave nectar if you’re vegan or trying to reduce sugar.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting chicken just right can be tricky, but here’s how to make sure it’s cooked through and tender:
- Always pat the chicken dry before seasoning; it helps to get a nice sear.
- Searing the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side locks in flavors. Make sure it’s golden brown.
- Using a meat thermometer is perfect for checking doneness; aim for 165°F (75°C).
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking keeps it juicy. A few minutes off the heat will help!
This dish is a great way to simplify dinner while enjoying a delicious meal. Enjoy making your one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice!
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 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, with a total of 35 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This helps them get a nice, golden crust. Season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder for extra flavor. Set aside while you heat the oil.
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn a lovely golden brown. This step adds great flavor! Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan, add the uncooked rice. Toast it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This helps enhance the flavor of the rice and will make it even tastier!
4. Make the Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, and honey. Stir to mix well, then pour this mixture over the toasted rice in the skillet. Give it a gentle stir to combine and make sure the rice is evenly covered.
5. Simmer:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing it 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 allows the rice to cook and absorb all those delicious flavors!
6. Serve:
After 20 minutes, check to ensure the rice is cooked and the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F or 75°C). Once done, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a splash of color.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy one-pan meal! It’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that brown rice typically takes longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and possibly increase the chicken broth to 1 1/2 cups, as brown rice absorbs more liquid.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can substitute it with a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce or even use a homemade barbecue sauce using tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices for a more personalized flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn during the rice cooking phase enhances the dish’s nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook through in the same time as the rice!
