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One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

4.9 from 138 reviews

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs or breasts with flavorful BBQ sauce and honey, cooked together with rice and mixed vegetables in a skillet. It’s a convenient, hearty, and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights, offering a perfect balance of sweet and smoky flavors in a simple one-pan dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 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 Sauce

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • ¼ cup honey

Vegetables

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Instructions

  1. Season and Sear the 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 them for about 5 minutes on each side until nicely browned to lock in the flavors.
  2. Prepare the BBQ Honey Sauce: While the chicken is searing, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl until smooth and combined. Pour this flavorful mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet.
  3. Add Rice and Broth: Add the uncooked long-grain rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly around the chicken and to prevent sticking to the pan.
  4. Simmer Covered: Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid and cook over low heat for about 20 minutes or until the rice becomes tender and absorbs the liquid.
  5. Add Mixed Vegetables: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, spread the mixed vegetables evenly over the top of the dish to steam gently, adding color and texture to the meal.
  6. Rest and Fluff: Once cooking is complete, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice carefully with a fork to mix the ingredients before serving.

Notes

  • Use chicken thighs for juicier meat, but breasts work well too if preferred leaner.
  • You can substitute mixed vegetables with your favorites such as bell peppers, peas, or corn.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper, before serving.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the other spices.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

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