This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a winner for busy nights! Juicy chicken, sweet BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice all come together in one dish. Less mess, more yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs are my go-to for a juicy texture. If you prefer, chicken breasts work well too, but they may be less moist. For a lighter option, you can also use firm tofu, seasoning it similarly.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce can add unique flavor. If you’re out, mix equal parts ketchup and soy sauce for a quick substitute. For a healthier twist, try a homemade sauce with tomato paste, honey, and a splash of vinegar.
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives a nice fluffy texture. You could swap it for brown rice, but remember it needs more cooking time. Quinoa or cauliflower rice also makes a great gluten-free alternative.
Honey: For a vegan option, maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey. They both bring sweetness to the dish without missing a beat!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Seared?
Getting that golden-brown sear on your chicken is crucial for flavor. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot pan—medium-high heat is key. This seals in moisture and creates a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you add too many pieces at once, the temperature drops, and your chicken will steam instead of sear.
- Let it cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes before flipping. This allows a crust to form, making it easier to turn.
Perfectly seared chicken adds richness to your dish, so don’t rush this step!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal for any night of the week. In just under an hour, you’ll have a delicious one-pan dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
First, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings stick better. Sprinkle salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder evenly over both sides of the chicken. This will give your dish a wonderful flavor!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large deep skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown. Don’t worry if the chicken is not fully cooked through at this stage—it will finish cooking later. Remove it from the pan and set it aside.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan, add the uncooked rice. Stir it around for 1-2 minutes until it lightly toasts. Toasting adds a nice nutty flavor to the rice, and it’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Next, stir in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Mix well to ensure everything is combined nicely. The BBQ sauce will give the rice a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
5. Cook the Chicken and Rice Together:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing it right on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes. This will cook the rice while allowing the chicken to finish cooking and absorb the amazing flavors!
6. Add Corn (Optional):
If you’d like to add corn for some color and sweetness, toss it in about 10 minutes into the cooking time. It will warm up nicely without losing its vibrant color!
7. Final Touches:
Once the cooking time is up, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid. Finally, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful, tender honey BBQ chicken served with perfectly cooked rice—all in one pan! It’s comfort food at its finest!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs or breasts can be used, but they may require a bit more cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption. You might also need to extend the simmering time for the rice to fully cook.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you’re out of BBQ sauce, a blend of ketchup and apple cider vinegar or a homemade BBQ sauce using tomato paste, honey, and Worcestershire sauce works well. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your liking!
How Long Will Leftovers Keep?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or diced carrots. Just add them to the pan when you return the chicken, ensuring they cook through by the time the dish is ready.
