Looking for a quick, delicious, and fuss-free dinner idea? This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is your answer! With tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a sticky-sweet honey BBQ sauce, this dish comes together in just one pan—meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe blends bold flavors with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also budget-friendly and customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder delivers big on taste and convenience. Let’s dive into how to make it!
Ingredients for One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts – Thighs add extra juiciness, but breasts work just as well for a leaner option.
- 1 cup long-grain rice – White rice is ideal, but jasmine or basmati can elevate the flavor.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Adds depth and richness to the rice as it cooks.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice) – Pick your favorite store-bought variety or make your own. Honey BBQ adds a sweet twist!
- 1 tbsp honey (optional) – For an extra layer of sticky sweetness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – Boosts the savory flavor.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – For a subtle smoky kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season to your liking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
Instructions: How to Make One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika (if using). Set aside while you heat the pan.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. (It doesn’t need to be fully cooked yet—just get that nice sear!) Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
- Toast the Rice: In the same pan, add the uncooked rice. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it, soaking up the leftover chicken juices and oil for extra flavor.
- Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce (and honey, if using). Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these add amazing flavor!
- Combine and Cook: Nestle the seared chicken back into the pan on top of the rice mixture. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, slice the chicken if desired, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color (optional).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Magic: Everything cooks together, saving you time and dishes.
- Bold Flavors: The combo of tangy BBQ sauce, sweet honey, and savory chicken broth is irresistible.
- Versatile: Swap ingredients or tweak spices to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tips for the Best Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Choose the Right Pan: Use a large skillet or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid to ensure even cooking.
- Customize the Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the BBQ mixture if you like a spicy kick.
- Rice Options: If using brown rice, increase the broth to 2.5 cups and extend the cooking time to 40-45 minutes.
- Make It Extra Saucy: Double the BBQ sauce and honey for a stickier, bolder finish.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a simple green salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread to round out the meal. For a Southern-inspired twist, serve it alongside coleslaw or cornbread. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the sweet and savory flavors perfectly.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 12g
(Values are approximate and depend on portion size and specific ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! Thaw it completely first to ensure even cooking. Pat it dry before seasoning to get a good sear.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?
A honey BBQ sauce works wonders, but any sweet or smoky variety—like Sweet Baby Ray’s or a homemade version—will do the trick.
Can I make this in the oven?
Absolutely! After searing the chicken and combining ingredients, transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
How do I store leftovers?
Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for anyone who loves a sweet-and-savory combo. Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner cook, or just craving something tasty, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try tonight, and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!
Love easy one-pan meals? Check out our other recipes like One-Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta or Sheet Pan Lemon Herb Chicken for more weeknight inspiration!
