Name: Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless); 1 cup rice (white or brown); 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup chicken broth (or water); Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to whip up, this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a winner. The sweet and smoky barbecue sauce pairs perfectly with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when I need something quick, but still crave a delicious, homemade meal. Plus, it’s simple enough to prepare, yet full of flavor that will make my taste buds dance.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how this recipe combines some of my favorite flavors—honey, BBQ sauce, and chicken. The sweet honey gives the BBQ sauce a rich depth that really coats the chicken beautifully, making every bite a mouthwatering experience. The rice helps balance out the dish, adding a mild base to absorb all the saucy goodness. It’s also incredibly versatile, and can be served with different sides depending on what I’m in the mood for. Whether I need a comforting dinner or something to impress guests, this recipe always hits the mark.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
1 cup rice (white or brown)
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

(Hear’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce and honey. Stir until well mixed.
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Add the chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
In the same pan, pour in the BBQ honey sauce. Let it simmer for about 1-2 minutes to thicken slightly.
While the sauce simmers, cook the rice according to the package instructions, using chicken broth or water.
Slice the chicken breasts and place them back into the pan with the sauce. Toss to coat the chicken in the sauce.
Serve the BBQ chicken over the cooked rice, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25 minutes to make, from prep to plate. It’s the kind of meal that’s fast but still feels hearty and satisfying.

Variations

If I want to switch things up, I can easily tweak this dish. For a smoky kick, I sometimes add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce. For a bit of crunch, I’ll throw some roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn on the side. For a healthier option, I can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice.

Storage/Reheating

I usually store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to eat, I just reheat the dish in the microwave or on the stove. If reheating on the stove, I’ll add a little splash of chicken broth to keep the rice from drying out, and warm everything on low heat.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use thighs instead of breasts, or even chicken tenders. The cooking time will be slightly different depending on the cut, but the BBQ sauce and honey will still work beautifully.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! I can prepare the chicken and rice separately, and then combine them when I’m ready to serve. It’s perfect for meal prepping or making dinner in advance.

What other sauces can I use besides BBQ?

If I want a different flavor profile, I can swap the BBQ sauce for teriyaki, a tangy mustard-based sauce, or even a creamy ranch dressing. Honey still works well with most of those.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

I like to use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. That way, I know it’s perfectly cooked without any guesswork.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

I recommend thawing the chicken before cooking for the best results, as frozen chicken may release too much water and affect the texture of the sauce.

Conclusion

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make meal that has become a go-to in my kitchen. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just preparing dinner for myself, the combination of honey, BBQ, and chicken over rice is always a hit. It’s quick, satisfying, and can be adapted to suit any tastes or dietary needs. I know I’ll be making this dish again and again!

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice