This one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice is an easy and tasty meal! Juicy chicken cooks right with fluffy rice, all soaked in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce that’s hard to resist.
You won’t believe how simple it is to make, and clean-up is a breeze! I love to pair it with some steamed veggies for a complete dinner. Quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious! 🍗🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using thighs for their juicy texture, but you can swap them for chicken breasts if you prefer. Just note that breasts may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for this recipe, but if you want a healthier option, try brown rice. Just increase the cooking time and liquid by a bit.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce works best! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use a sugar-free option or make your own with ketchup and vinegar.
Honey: If you need to avoid sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar can be a good alternative. They’ll give a similar sweetness without the honey.
How Do I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice in a one-pan dish can be tricky, but here’s how to get it just right:
- Always rinse your rice under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps keep the grains from getting gummy.
- Make sure to keep the lid on when simmering! It traps steam and helps the rice cook evenly.
- If the rice isn’t fully cooked after the time is up, you can add a splash more water and continue cooking with the lid on until tender.
Letting it rest covered after cooking lets the rice soak up any remaining moisture, ensuring a fluffy final dish!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
For Cooking:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal will take approximately 30 minutes. You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking, including simmering the chicken and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and barbecue sauce until well combined. This sweet and tangy sauce will add great flavor to your dish. Set it aside for later!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. While the oil heats up, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they become softened and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the rice!
4. Add the Rice:
Now, stir in the uncooked rice and let it cook for 1 minute to coat in the oil and aromatics. This helps toasting the rice slightly, enhancing its flavor.
5. Combine and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir well to combine everything. Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Then, pour the honey BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
6. Cook Until Done:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. The aroma will be irresistible!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once the cooking time is up, remove the pan from heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright finish!
Enjoy your delicious and easy one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to ensure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or use the quick method of placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice?
Absolutely! If you choose to use brown rice, just remember to increase the cooking time and the liquid slightly. Brown rice typically takes about 25-30 minutes to cook, so adjust your simmering time accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Dish?
Additions like bell peppers, corn, or even broccoli can be a great way to boost nutrition! Toss them in along with the onions and garlic, cooking them for a few minutes before adding the rice for added flavor and texture.
