Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

You know that comforting feeling when a meal warms your heart and fills your belly? That’s how I feel each time I whip up Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. This dish takes the beloved combination of tender chicken, rich BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice to a whole new level. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is a breeze to make and a delight to eat, whether you’re serving it to your family or hosting a casual get-together with friends.

What makes this recipe special

You might wonder why you should try making this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice at home. Here are just a few reasons:

1. Quick and Simple: With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, this dish fits perfectly into any hectic schedule.

2. Kid-Approved: The sweetness of the honey and the smoky flavor of the BBQ sauce are sure to make even the pickiest eaters dive in for seconds.

3. One-Pan Wonder: Less mess translates to less cleanup—just one skillet to handle!

4. Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice levels to suit your family’s tastes.

“This recipe has become our family favorite. The boys can’t get enough of that sweet BBQ flavor!”

How this recipe comes together

Making Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. In just a few steps, you’ll have golden-browned chicken infused with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, nestled atop perfectly cooked rice. Gather your ingredients, follow the easy directions, and you’ll have a satisfying meal that feels special without all the fuss.

What you’ll need

Gather these items:

• 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

Substitutions: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option, and consider using brown rice for an added nutritional boost!

Step-by-step instructions

1. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper generously over the chicken thighs.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and minced garlic if using.
4. Toast the Rice: In the same skillet, briefly toast uncooked rice for about 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden.
5. Combine Broth and Sauce: Add chicken broth and half of the prepared sauce to the rice, stirring well.
6. Add Chicken Back: Place the seared chicken back in the skillet, pouring the remaining sauce over the top.
7. Simmer: Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
8. Incorporate Vegetables (Optional): If you choose to add mixed vegetables, toss them in now, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
9. Rest Before Serving: Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before garnishing with green onions and serving hot.

Best ways to enjoy it

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is versatile, making it easy to enjoy in various ways. For an elegant presentation, serve it in shallow bowls topped with a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Pair it with a fresh side salad or some crusty bread to round out your meal. If you’d like to elevate the dish even further, consider adding a drizzle of extra honey or a squeeze of lime for a zesty touch!

Storage and reheating tips

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can savor this dish even after the initial meal.

• Refrigeration: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in a similar airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: When ready to enjoy your leftovers, microwave them on high until heated through, or reheat in a skillet, adding a little additional chicken broth if the rice is drying out.

Helpful cooking tips

For the best results, consider these practical tips:

• Use a Good Quality BBQ Sauce: The flavor of the dish depends greatly on the BBQ sauce you choose. Opt for your favorite brand or even make your own for a personal touch!
• Don’t Rush the Searing: Allowing the chicken to sear properly enhances the flavor profile, giving that lovely golden crust.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a richer flavor, consider adding extra honey if you like it sweet or reducing the amount for a more tangy taste.

Creative twists

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas:

• Add Some Spice: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for a fiery kick.
• Switch Up Proteins: Try swapping in pork tenderloin or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, such as a spicy, honey mustard, or even a teriyaki sauce for an Asian flair.

Your questions answered

1. How long does it take to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
From start to finish, this dish takes about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook—adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly!

3. Is it safe to store leftovers?
Yes, as long as you follow proper food handling guidelines by cooling it down quickly and refrigerating within two hours of cooking.

By following these guidelines and tips, your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is bound to be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy experimenting, and may it become a cherished recipe in your home.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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A comforting one-pan meal combining tender chicken, rich honey BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs Can substitute with chicken breasts for a leaner option.
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain rice Can use brown rice, but adjust cooking time.
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Choose a good quality BBQ sauce for best flavor.
• 1/4 cup honey Adjust sweetness to taste.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables Optional, add during the last cooking step.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken thighs.
2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the seasoned chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and minced garlic (if using).
4. In the same skillet, toast uncooked rice for about 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.

Cooking

1. Add chicken broth and half of the prepared sauce to the rice, stirring well.
2. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
3. Cover the skillet and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
4. If using mixed vegetables, add them now, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped green onions and serving hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 10g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a microwave or skillet, adding broth if needed.

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