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Unlock the Ultimate Comfort Food: Your Guide to One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Unlock the Ultimate Comfort Food: Your Guide to One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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!

Ingredients

Scale

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

Instructions

  • 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.

Notes

  • 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.