If you’re looking for a weeknight meal that’s equal parts crowd-pleaser and comfort food, you can’t go wrong with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. The sweet and smoky flavors soak right into tender chicken and fluffy rice, all made in one pan for easy cleanup. Plus, with its medley of colorful veggies and irresistible barbecue aroma, this dish always brings people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, Honey BBQ Chicken Rice always delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down the simple ingredients behind this delicious one-pan wonder! Each one is chosen to punch up the flavor, bring vibrant color, or make the perfect texture—so don’t skip any, and feel free to swap in what you love.

Chicken thighs or breasts (1 lb): Look for boneless, skinless cuts for super simple prep and juicy meat every time.
Long-grain rice (1 cup): Gives you fluffy, perfectly separated grains—avoid sticky rice here for best results.
Chicken broth (2 cups): Adds savory depth and infuses the rice with even more flavor than water.
BBQ sauce (½ cup): Your favorite brand works wonders; smoky, spicy, or sweet, choose what makes your taste buds happy.
Honey (¼ cup): The star for that signature glazy sweetness and beautiful golden finish.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): For that essential savory punch without the extra chopping.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): It rounds out the seasoning with mellow aromatic flavor.
Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings subtle smokiness and rich color to every bite.
Salt and pepper: Season to your liking—taste before serving if you want to adjust!
Mixed vegetables (1 cup): Fresh or frozen—think peas, carrots, or corn for bright pops of color and added nutrition.
Chopped green onions or parsley: For that touch of freshness and vibrant finish right before serving.

How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry and sprinkle it evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This quick rub packs in loads of flavor and keeps the chicken savory all the way through.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat and drizzle in a bit of oil. Sear the seasoned chicken pieces for 3-4 minutes per side until they’re beautifully golden. This step locks in juices and gives the meat those crave-worthy caramelized edges. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

In the same pan (don’t wipe out those tasty browned bits!), add the uncooked long-grain rice. Stir frequently and toast for 1-2 minutes, just until the rice grains turn slightly golden. This adds unexpected nutty depth to your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice.

Step 4: Add Broth, BBQ Sauce, and Honey

Stir in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey right into the toasty rice. Mix well to combine, making sure the sauce dissolves and coats the rice evenly—watch as the incredible aroma starts to fill your kitchen!

Step 5: Nestle in the Chicken

Place the seared chicken on top of the rice mixture, nestling each piece so it’s partially submerged. This lets the chicken soak up those sweet, smoky, and savory flavors as it finishes cooking.

Step 6: Simmer and Add Vegetables

Bring the pan to a gentle boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. After that, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the top, cover again, and cook another 5 minutes (or until rice is tender and the chicken has reached 165°F).

Step 7: Rest, Fluff, and Garnish

Take the pan off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes so everything settles. Then fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley, and get ready to dig into your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice!

How to Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the finishing touches! A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or parsley brings brightness to your plate and a gentle herby note that balances all the rich flavors. If you like a little crunch, try toasted sesame seeds or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for lively contrast.

Side Dishes

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice shines as a one-pan meal, but you can easily round it out with crisp green salads, buttery corn on the cob, or a tangy coleslaw. Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread make the meal especially comforting, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice straight from the skillet at the center of your table. Want to impress guests? Scoop the rice onto a platter, neatly arrange the chicken pieces on top, and finish with a generous scattering of fresh herbs. For parties, portion it into bowls for easy carrying!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It’ll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a super convenient meal-prep option.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze any leftovers! Divide the cooled rice and chicken into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible. Store for up to 2 months, and always label with the date so you don’t forget what’s inside.

Reheating

To enjoy your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice again, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the rice’s texture. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until piping hot.

FAQs

Can I make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice with brown rice?

Definitely! Just keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook (about 40 minutes). Add extra broth and toss in the vegetables later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking them.

Is it possible to use a different protein?

Absolutely—this recipe works beautifully with turkey, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose, ensuring everything is safely cooked through.

Which BBQ sauce goes best with this dish?

The beauty of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is its flexibility; a smoky, tangy sauce adds depth, while sweet or spicy BBQ sauces each give their own personality. Experiment with flavors to find your perfect match!

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you like a kick, toss a bit of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce into the BBQ and honey mixture. Diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes sprinkled on top after cooking also do the trick without overpowering the dish.

Can I make this dish dairy-free and gluten-free?

Yes! Simply ensure your BBQ sauce is free of gluten and dairy, and everything else in the recipe is naturally friendly for those with either dietary need. Always double-check labels to be safe.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for the whole family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, Honey BBQ Chicken Rice brings warmth, flavor, and color to the table in a way that never disappoints. Give it a try, and I have a feeling it’ll become a regular favorite at your house too!

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 20 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a delicious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, flavorful BBQ sauce, sweet honey, and aromatic spices with fluffy rice and mixed vegetables. It’s a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, making it a family favorite.

Instructions

Season and Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Toast the Rice: In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Prepare the Rice Mixture: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Add Vegetables: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice. Cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

Notes

You can customize the BBQ sauce to your preference, whether you like it tangy, smoky, or spicy.
Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrients.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American