Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is an easy, one-pan meal that balances sweet and smoky flavors with comforting rice and tender chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want big flavor with minimal fuss.

introduction

This recipe pairs seared, seasoned chicken thighs with long-grain rice simmered in a honey-BBQ sauce and chicken broth. Optional mixed vegetables make it a complete meal in one pot. The result is sticky, savory-sweet chicken and fluffy rice, finished with bright green onions.

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Start by seasoning and searing the chicken to lock in juices and build flavor. A quick sauce of BBQ sauce and honey adds sweetness and depth; part is mixed into the cooking liquid so the rice absorbs the flavor, and the rest glazes the chicken. Simmer everything together until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Finish with mixed vegetables if using, let the pot rest briefly, then garnish and serve.

Ingredients :

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Directions :

1. Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
4. In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half the sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan, pour remaining sauce over the top.
6. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
7. Add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
8. Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve hot straight from the pan for a rustic family-style meal, or plate individual portions with extra chopped green onions and a wedge of lime for brightness. A side of steamed broccoli or a simple green salad complements the sweet-smoky flavors.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Cool to room temperature, then transfer to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or microwave covered, stirring once, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to get a better sear.
• Use day-old rice only if you were substituting cooked rice; this recipe uses uncooked rice and simmers it in broth.
• Taste the sauce before simmering and adjust honey or BBQ sauce for sweeter or tangier notes.
• If your BBQ sauce is very thick, thin slightly with a tablespoon of broth so it distributes evenly.
• For even cooking, choose uniform-sized chicken pieces.

variation (if any)

• Swap chicken thighs for boneless, skinless chicken breasts (increase simmer time slightly and check temperature).
• Use brown rice — increase liquid and simmer time per package instructions.
• Make it spicy by adding sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• For a smokier profile, use a chipotle BBQ sauce or add a dash of liquid smoke.

FAQ

Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice?
A: This recipe is designed for uncooked rice simmered in broth. If using pre-cooked rice, add it near the end just to heat through and avoid overcooking.

Q: Is it possible to make this in an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven?
A: Yes — after searing and combining, you can cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20–25 minutes, checking rice for doneness.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: Check internal temperature — chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). The rice should be tender and most liquid absorbed.

Conclusion

If you want more ideas for sweet and savory chicken bowls with similar flavors and easy family-friendly preparations, see Honey BBQ Chicken Bowls · Easy Family Recipes.