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One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

4.8 from 75 reviews

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple, flavorful, and convenient meal that combines tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce with a hint of honey, and perfectly cooked rice all in one pan. With just a few basic ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade dinner without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Grains:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice

Liquids:

  • 2 cups chicken broth

Sauces:

  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • 1/4 cup honey

Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables:

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Garnish (Optional):

  • Chopped green onions or parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This ensures the chicken is flavorful throughout.
  2. Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and brown them on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. This incorporates the veggies’ flavors into the base.
  4. Add Rice and Liquids: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the pan and stir well with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey, stirring until combined.
  5. Return Chicken to Pan: Place the browned chicken pieces on top of the rice mixture. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
  6. Simmer and Cook: Let everything simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender, liquid is absorbed, and chicken is cooked through.
  7. Rest and Garnish: Remove from heat and let the pan rest covered for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving for added freshness and color.

Notes

  • You can use either chicken thighs or breasts depending on your preference; thighs will be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner.
  • Adjust the amount of honey or BBQ sauce based on your desired sweetness or tanginess.
  • If using frozen mixed vegetables, no need to thaw them before cooking.
  • Make sure to cover the pan tightly during simmering to cook the rice properly.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Keywords: one pan, honey BBQ chicken, chicken rice recipe, easy weeknight dinner, skillet chicken, BBQ chicken