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One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

4.9 from 50 reviews

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal where tender chicken thighs are seared and simmered in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce alongside fragrant rice and mixed vegetables. Perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner, it combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one skillet for minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Rice and Vegetables

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

BBQ Sauce Mixture

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • ¼ cup honey

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until both sides are nicely browned and partially cooked.
  2. Prepare BBQ Sauce Mixture: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the seared chicken in the skillet.
  3. Add Rice and Broth: Add the long-grain rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir everything together gently to incorporate the rice and sauce without displacing the chicken.
  4. Simmer Covered: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes until the rice starts to soften.
  5. Add Vegetables and Continue Cooking: After 15 minutes, place the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken without stirring them in. Cover and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to steam and the rice to finish cooking.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork to combine the vegetables and chicken evenly. Serve hot.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breasts with thighs depending on your preference for juiciness.
  • Use fresh or frozen vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn for variety.
  • If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes during seasoning.
  • Ensure the rice is fully submerged in liquid before covering to avoid burning.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Keywords: BBQ chicken, one-pan meal, easy dinner, honey BBQ, chicken and rice, skillet recipe, quick dinner, family meal