Print

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a deliciously sweet and smoky one-pan meal featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs glazed in a sticky honey BBQ sauce, paired with fluffy long-grain rice and optional mixed vegetables. This easy-to-make, comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, delivering bold flavors with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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

Rice and Sauce

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Additional

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: Evenly coat the boneless, skinless chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse them with warm, savory flavors.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and sealed, then remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir well to create a flavorful, sticky glaze.
  4. Toast Rice: Using the same skillet, toast the uncooked long-grain rice for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to lightly brown the grains and enhance their nutty flavor.
  5. Add Liquid and Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and half of the prepared honey BBQ sauce into the skillet with the rice. Stir gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
  6. Combine Chicken and Simmer: Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan, placing them over the rice. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to cook through.
  7. Add Vegetables: After 15 minutes, add mixed vegetables on top, cover again, and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  8. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot for a satisfying meal.

Notes

  • Use long-grain rice for best texture and fluffiness.
  • Adjust the sweetness level by varying the amount of honey to suit your taste preferences.
  • For extra smokiness, try using a mesquite or hickory flavored BBQ sauce.
  • To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas.