why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet is a delicious, quick, and easy one-pan meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. It brings together tender chicken, flavorful rice, and colorful vegetables, all coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. This dish is not only satisfying but also full of taste and nutrition. Plus, with minimal clean-up, it makes dinnertime less stressful while making the whole family happy!

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet

Ingredients:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
2 cups chicken broth, preferably low-sodium
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (mesquite flavor recommended for extra smokiness)
1/4 cup honey
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh – peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers work well)
2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
2-3 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Extra drizzle of BBQ sauce

Directions:

If using chicken breasts, cut them into 1-inch cubes or bite-sized pieces (chicken thighs can be left a bit larger). Mix the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper) in a small bowl. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear, then drain well. Have all other ingredients measured and ready to go.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture over the chicken pieces. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd (work in batches if needed). Sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown but not necessarily cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pan along with the remaining seasoning mixture. Stir constantly and cook for 1-2 minutes until the rice becomes slightly translucent around the edges and smells toasty. This step adds depth of flavor to the final dish.
Carefully pour in the chicken broth (it may splatter), BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Add the seared chicken back to the pan, nestling the pieces into the rice mixture. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid or stir, as this will release steam and affect the cooking of the rice.
After 15 minutes, quickly add the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken, spreading them evenly. Cover again immediately and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the vegetables are heated through, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and the flavors to meld together. Uncover and gently fluff the rice with a fork, carefully incorporating the vegetables.
Sprinkle the sliced green onions and/or chopped parsley over the top if using. For extra BBQ flavor, drizzle a small amount of additional BBQ sauce over the dish just before serving. Serve hot, directly from the skillet or transfer to a serving dish.

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet

Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet directly from the pan for a casual and cozy dinner setting. You can also plate it into bowls and garnish with more green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce and honey for a few hours before cooking.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your family’s preferences or what’s in season.
If you like it spicy, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the chicken seasoning for an extra kick.

variation

You can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and throw in your favorite vegetables for a delightful dish.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice will require more cooking time and additional liquid. Make sure to adjust the broth and cooking duration accordingly.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it up to the point of cooking and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, just bring it to a simmer and follow the remaining steps.
What can I substitute for honey if I want it to be vegan?
You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey to keep the dish vegan-friendly.