This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a tasty, simple meal! Juicy chicken is cooked to perfection in a sweet BBQ sauce, all in one pan with fluffy rice.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for their juiciness. However, you can easily substitute with chicken breasts if that’s what you have. Just make sure to adjust cooking time, as breasts can dry out more easily.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, but you can use jasmine or basmati rice if you have them. If you want a healthier option, try brown rice—just be sure to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Honey: Using honey gives a lovely sweetness, but if you’re out of it, maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes. Just keep in mind that they may alter the flavor a bit.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for this dish! You can also make your own homemade BBQ sauce if you’re up for it. Alternatively, any sweet sauce, like teriyaki, can give a unique twist!
Vegetables: Adding frozen peas or mixed vegetables is optional, but it’s a great way to sneak in some greens. You can also use fresh veggies like bell peppers or broccoli; just chop them small and add in.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is crucial! The key is in the searing and cooking method:
- Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for deep flavor.
- When searing, let the chicken sit undisturbed for a few minutes so it forms a nice crust. Flip once it’s golden brown.
- After adding the rice and liquid, cook on low heat covered to ensure even cooking. This will help retain moisture in the chicken.
- Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating!
Letting the dish rest before serving allows the flavors to meld, making every bite even better!
How to Make Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Rice and Sauce:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup honey
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 to 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, and it’s all made in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken thighs (or breasts) generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This step adds great flavor to the chicken.
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your chicken pieces and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Onion:
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This adds a lovely flavor to the dish!
4. Stir in the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan and stir it well to coat it in the remaining oil and onion mixture. This helps the rice absorb all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
5. Mix the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, water, honey, and barbecue sauce. Mix it well before pouring it into the pan with the rice.
6. Combine and Cook:
Pour the liquid mixture into the pan with the rice and stir everything together until combined. Then, place the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice and bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
7. Let it Cook:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and cook for 18-20 minutes. Check to see that the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through (165°F or 75°C).
8. Add Vegetables (optional):
If you’re using frozen peas or mixed vegetables, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color!
9. Finish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions to add a pop of freshness!
Enjoy your easy and comforting one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice! It’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for their moisture and flavor, you can substitute with chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be cautious of overcooking, as breasts tend to dry out more quickly.
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, you can substitute it with maple syrup or agave nectar. Keep in mind that these alternatives might slightly alter the flavor profile, but they’ll still maintain that sweet touch in the sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and sauté the onions in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine them with the remaining ingredients and follow the cooking instructions to warm through!