This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a total time-saver! Juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet BBQ sauce all cook together in one pan. Less cleanup, more yummy!
You’ll love how the honey BBQ makes everything taste amazing. Plus, the rice soaks up all that delicious flavor! I always add some veggies for color and extra goodness—who doesn’t love a colorful dish? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs work beautifully because they stay juicy. If you prefer, chicken breasts can be used instead, but they may dry out quicker. You can also substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to enhance the dish’s flavor. For a kick, try a spicy BBQ sauce or make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Look for a sugar-free version if you want to cut down on sweetness.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is the go-to here, but feel free to swap in brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as they may require longer cooking.
Bell Peppers: Adding diced bell peppers brings color and vitamins. You can replace them with frozen mixed veggies, peas, or carrots if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken tender and packed with flavor, follow these key steps. Start with seasoning the chicken well! Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika enhance its natural flavors.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing. This allows the chicken to brown nicely without steaming.
- Once seared, remove the chicken from the pan to prevent overcooking while the rice simmers.
- When you place the chicken back on top of the rice, cover the pan. This keeps moisture in and helps the chicken cook evenly.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
For Extra Flavor:
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional, for color)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time. So, altogether, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish! A quick and easy one-pan meal perfect for a busy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs on both sides with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This will give them a nice flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown. After that, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan you used for the chicken, add the uncooked rice. Stir it around for about 1-2 minutes until it gets slightly toasty. This step gives the rice a wonderful flavor!
4. Mix the BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Mix it well until everything is nicely combined.
5. Combine and Cook:
Pour the BBQ-honey mixture over the toasted rice. If you’re using the diced bell peppers, stir them in now! Then, carefully place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice mixture.
6. Simmer It Down:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow the rice to cook fully and soak up all those delicious flavors!
7. Thicken the Sauce:
If you want a thicker sauce, remove the lid after 25 minutes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing extra liquid to evaporate.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley if desired. It adds a lovely touch and makes it look great!
Enjoy your flavorful one-pan meal with minimal fuss and maximum taste! Happy eating! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Thighs?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Searing frozen chicken may lead to uneven cooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you’d like a bit of heat, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture. You can also top the finished dish with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can season and sear the chicken earlier in the day and store it in the fridge. Then, just assemble the dish and cook it when you’re ready to eat. It’s perfect for meal prepping!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist.
