This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a delicious meal all made in one pot! Juicy chicken combines with sweet honey BBQ sauce and fluffy rice for a family-friendly feast.
Weeknight dinners just got easier! I love how simple it is—just throw everything in one pan and let it cook! No extra dishes mean more time to relax! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are my go-to because they stay moist, but you can easily swap them for chicken breasts if that’s what you have. Just be careful not to overcook breasts, as they can dry out more easily.
Rice: I recommend long-grain white rice for fluffy texture. If you want a healthier option, brown rice works well but may require a bit more cooking time and liquid.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce to personalize the flavor! You can swap it for a homemade version too. Just blend ketchup, vinegar, a bit of brown sugar, and spices.
Honey: For a quick substitute, consider using maple syrup or agave for sweetness. They’ll alter the flavor slightly but still taste great!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Rice Perfectly in One Pan?
Cooking rice in one pan with chicken is easy, but timing is key! Here’s how to ensure the rice turns out just right:
- After adding broth, be sure the rice is fully submerged for even cooking.
- Once chicken is added, cover the pan tightly. This traps steam and helps the rice cook without burning.
- Keep the heat low! Too high can lead to uneven cooking.
- Let it rest after cooking. This step allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
With these tips, you’ll achieve delicious, fluffy rice every time!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- For Flavor:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 25 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 35 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a hearty one-pan meal that’s full of flavor and quick to clean up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and honey. This sweet and tangy mixture will add fantastic flavor to your dish. Set it aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken pieces and season them well with salt and black pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor and ensure they taste great!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they’re nicely browned but not fully cooked. After searing, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
4. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft. Then, throw in minced garlic and cook for another minute—this will make your kitchen smell amazing!
5. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to get all those tasty browned bits mixed in.
6. Incorporate the Rice:
Stir in the rice, ensuring it’s evenly spread throughout the broth. Lay the seared chicken pieces on top of the rice; don’t worry, they’ll finish cooking in the next steps!
7. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Now, drizzle the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice. Make sure everyone gets a bit of that delicious sauce!
8. Cover and Cook:
Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
9. Let it Rest:
Once it’s cooked, remove the pan from heat but keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the rice absorb any extra moisture!
10. Add Finishing Touches:
Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious, easy one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice!
Happy cooking! 😊
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken breasts, thighs, or even drumsticks. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What If I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
No problem! You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or even water. If using water, consider adding a pinch of extra seasoning to enhance the flavor in your dish.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, ensure you use a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Most are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always good to check the label before using.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a sprinkle of water or broth to keep it moist if necessary.
