This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a fantastic meal! With juicy chicken coated in sweet BBQ sauce and fluffy rice, it’s like a little party in your mouth.
I love how everything cooks together, saving me from extra dishes. Plus, the tasty smell makes my family come running to the table. Who can resist BBQ goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness. If you’d like a healthier option, go for thighs! They stay juicy and flavorful. You can also substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! For a twist, try a spicy or smoky flavor. If you’re out of BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup and Worcestershire sauce can work in a pinch!
Rice: Long grain white rice is my go-to for this dish, but brown rice is also a great substitute. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Honey: For sweetness, honey adds a lovely touch. If you prefer a vegan option, use maple syrup or agave nectar instead.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked Without Burning It?
Cooking chicken just right can sometimes be tricky, but it’s all about the heat and timing. Here’s how to do it:
- Use medium-high heat for that nice golden sear, which gives flavor. Don’t rush it; let it brown for about 5 minutes.
- Keep an eye on it! Since the chicken cooks quickly, don’t leave it unattended.
- Finally, always cut it into bite-sized pieces for faster cooking. This way, each piece grabs those delicious flavors.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook! It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough for guests. The best part? You only need one pan for easy cleanup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and brown on all sides, which should take about 5 minutes. After the chicken is golden and cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same pan, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Just be careful not to burn it! This will add an aromatic kick to your dish.
3. Add the Rice:
Now, add the rinsed long grain rice to the pan. Give it a good stir to coat the rice with the oil and garlic. Cook it for about 1 minute, allowing the rice to absorb those tasty flavors.
4. Cook with Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a spatula to scrape any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
5. Combine Chicken and Simmer:
Return the browned chicken pieces back into the pan, hiding them within the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
6. Add BBQ Sauce and Honey:
In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and honey. Drizzle this sweet mixture evenly over the chicken and rice. Gently stir or tilt the pan to make sure everything is coated in that yummy BBQ sauce.
7. Final Heating:
Cover the pan again and allow it to cook on low heat for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a nice touch. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful one-pan meal!
This dish combines tender chicken in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce served over perfectly cooked rice — all made in one pan for easy cleanup! Enjoy! 🥳
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! However, make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before cooking. This ensures even cooking and prevents any moisture issues in the pan.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor and heat!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything up to the point of adding the BBQ sauce and honey, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, reheat in a pan with a splash of chicken broth to add moisture and flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to prevent drying out.
