Honey BBQ Chicken Rice – The Ultimate One-Pan Comfort Meal
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a sweet, smoky, and satisfying one-pan dinner made with tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a sticky honey barbecue glaze. Everything cooks together in a single skillet, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights, simple meal prep, or whenever you’re craving comfort food with bold flavor.
Ingredients
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
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1 cup long-grain rice
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2 cups chicken broth
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce
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1/4 cup honey
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 cup mixed vegetables (optional – peas, carrots, corn, or green beans)
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Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
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Season the chicken
Sprinkle chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on both sides. -
Sear the chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil if needed and sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside. -
Make the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic (if using). -
Toast the rice
In the same skillet, add uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. -
Add liquid and sauce
Pour in chicken broth and half of the honey BBQ sauce. Stir well. -
Combine
Nestle the chicken back into the skillet and pour the remaining sauce over the top. -
Simmer
Cover and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes. -
Add vegetables
Stir in mixed vegetables, cover again, and cook another 5 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked. -
Rest and serve
Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions and enjoy.
Notes
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Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts (cut into chunks).
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Add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for more veggies.
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Make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
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Vegetarian option: substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.