why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious meal that combines the sweetness of honey with smoky BBQ flavors. It’s simple to prepare and is perfect for any night of the week. This dish is also filling and can be made in one pan, making cleanup easy. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy chicken and rice with added vegetables for a complete meal.

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

Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half the sauce. Stir to combine.
Return the chicken to the pan, pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
Add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

You can serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice as a complete meal on its own. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner. For a nice touch, you can add extra chopped green onions or some sesame seeds on top. Pair it with a salad or coleslaw for a refreshing side.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

To store leftovers, let the dish cool down first. Then, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, be sure to use a freezer-safe container and consume it within a month.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Make sure to season your chicken well for the best flavor.
If you like it spicier, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
You can use brown rice instead; just adjust the cooking time and quantity of chicken broth.
For more veggies, consider adding bell peppers, peas, or corn.

variation

You can switch up the proteins! Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. You can also add different vegetables based on what you have on hand. Adding pineapple can give a tropical twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breast. Just be careful not to overcook it, as it can dry out.

2. What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
You can use teriyaki sauce or a homemade sweet and sour sauce if you prefer a different flavor.

3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free BBQ sauce and ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.

5. How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe to eat. You can check this with a meat thermometer.