Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and filling meal that combines juicy chicken, flavorful barbecue sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it brings comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and can be enjoyed by everyone, making it a family favorite.

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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 the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix the 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 of the sauce. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and pour the 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 the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
8. Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

When serving Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, scoop a generous portion onto plates or into bowls. You can add a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch. This dish is great on its own but can be enjoyed with a side salad or some crusty bread for an even heartier meal.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It can last up to 3–4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 2-3 months.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

• Make sure to brown the chicken well for maximum flavor.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or even switch the chicken for another protein, like tofu or shrimp.
• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce and honey mixture for a few hours before cooking.

variation

You can change this recipe by using different sauces. If you want a spicy kick, try adding hot sauce to the BBQ mix. For a more Asian flavor, you could replace BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce or a sweet chili sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out.

2. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! You can prepare Honey BBQ Chicken Rice a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

3. What vegetables can I add?
You can add any vegetables you like! Peas, carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli work well and add color and nutrition.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

A delicious and filling meal combining juicy chicken, flavorful BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for less salt
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• Chopped green onions for garnish
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, and minced garlic.

Cooking

1. In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes.
2. Add chicken broth and half of the sauce. Stir to combine.
3. Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
6. Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Notes

Make sure to brown the chicken well for maximum flavor. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch the chicken for tofu or shrimp. For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce and honey mixture for a few hours before cooking. To store leftovers, let them cool completely and place in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 2-3 months.