This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the ultimate quick and flavorful weeknight meal. Juicy chicken, smoky-sweet BBQ sauce, and perfectly seasoned rice come together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. It’s packed with protein, and you can easily add your favorite veggies for a complete meal in under 40 minutes!
Protein:
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Grains:
1 cup long-grain rice
Liquids & Sauces:
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
¼ cup honey
Spices:
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables:
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Optional Garnish:
Chopped green onions or parsley
Sear the Chicken:
Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Rice:
In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in chicken broth, then stir in BBQ sauce and honey.
Simmer Everything Together:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Add the Vegetables:
Sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice, cover again, and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve & Garnish:
Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili powder to the rice while simmering.
Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
Frozen vegetables work perfectly, but fresh vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers make it even more colorful.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.