Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and wholesome dish that combines tender chicken thighs, flavorful rice, and a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Why Make This Recipe
One of the best reasons to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is its versatility. The blend of honey and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering glaze that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and fluffy rice. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to clean up after dinner! Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for a quick meal prep option for the week, this dish has you covered.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Making Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple instructions to whip up this delightful meal that packs a punch of flavor. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, you’ll find this recipe both easy to follow and incredibly rewarding.
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Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, you’ll need the following 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
Here’s how to prepare your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice:
- Begin by seasoning the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then sear the chicken thighs for about 3–4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. This mixture will serve as your delightful sauce.
- In the same skillet, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes to give it a little extra flavor. Then, add the chicken broth and half of the sauce mixture to the rice. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Return the seared chicken to the pan, and pour the remaining sauce over the top of the chicken.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb all those delicious flavors while cooking.
- After 15 minutes, add the mixed vegetables if using. Cover the skillet and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes off the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch and serve hot.
Pro Tips for Success with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Patience is key: When searing the chicken, allow it to dapple in its own juices before flipping it. This gives you that stunning golden-brown color.
- Don’t skip toasting the rice: Toasting the rice enhances its flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth: This allows you to control the salt content and tailor the dish to your taste.
- Think ahead: Cook a larger batch of this recipe and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
- Optional add-ins: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to add more nutrition and color to the dish.
Flavor Variations for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Spicy Twist: Add a splash of hot sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Tropical Vibes: Substitute the BBQ sauce with a sweet teriyaki glaze and add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by marinating the chicken in fresh rosemary or thyme before cooking for an aromatic touch.
- Smoky Flavor: Use chipotle BBQ sauce instead of regular BBQ sauce for a smoky, rich taste that can take your dish to another level.
Serving Suggestions for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a versatile dish that can be served with numerous sides or toppings. Here are some serving ideas to enhance your dining experience:
- Pair it with a fresh side salad to add a crisp texture and lightness to your meal.
- Serve with cornbread or homemade biscuits for a hearty touch.
- Offer slices of avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy addition.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch and visual appeal.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is great for meal prep! Here are some tips for storing and freezing:
- Refrigeration: Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. Honey BBQ Chicken Rice can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also heat it on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to add moisture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium |
|———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–|
| 450 | 27g | 60g | 12g | 3g | 600mg |
FAQ About Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
What can I use instead of chicken thighs in this recipe?
You can easily substitute chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer leanness. Alternatively, diced tofu or tempeh can work well for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts may require less time to cook through.
Can I make this dish in a rice cooker?
Though this recipe is designed for a skillet, you can adapt it for a rice cooker. Cook the rice according to your rice cooker instructions, then mix the pre-cooked chicken and sauce after everything is done.
What type of BBQ sauce works best for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
Generally, a tangy BBQ sauce is a perfect choice for this recipe. Varieties like Kansas City-style or a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce will complement the honey well. Feel free to experiment to find your favorite!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice gluten-free, use certified gluten-free soy sauce or a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Always be sure to check the ingredients to avoid any gluten contamination.
How can I scale this recipe for a larger group?
Scaling this recipe is easy. Just multiply each ingredient by the number of servings you want. Make sure to use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the increased quantity, and adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is not only a delicious dish but also a wonderful way to bring the family together for a satisfying meal. With its sweet and savory flavor profile, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you adapt it with your own twists or stick to the original recipe, you’re bound to enjoy a hearty meal in no time! So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get cooking today!
Print
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and wholesome dish combining tender chicken thighs, flavorful rice, and a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
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
Instructions
- Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, coating evenly.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, and minced garlic.
- In the same skillet, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes, then add chicken broth and half of the sauce mixture, stirring well.
- Return the seared chicken to the skillet and pour the remaining sauce over it.
- Cover and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables if using, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Let sit for 5 minutes off the heat, garnish with green onions, and serve hot.
Notes
Optional add-ins include bell peppers or broccoli for more nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
