This one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice dish is a real time-saver! Juicy chicken glazes in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, mingling perfectly with fluffy rice.
Add in some colorful veggies, and you’ve got a delightful meal without a mountain of dishes to wash! I love how everything cooks together—less fuss, more yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs because they’re juicy and cook evenly. If you want a leaner option, go for chicken breasts, but they can dry out if overcooked.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is a great choice here, as it absorbs the flavors well. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try brown rice, though keep in mind it may take longer to cook.
Honey: Honey adds a sweet touch to the BBQ sauce. If you need a substitute, maple syrup works well for a similar sweetness, or agave syrup for a vegan option.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! Homemade is great, but any bottled version will do. For a spicy kick, opt for a zesty barbecue sauce.
Bell Peppers: Feel free to skip the bell peppers if they’re not your thing. You could also use other veggies like corn or peas for added color and nutrition.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Rice?
A key part of this recipe is ensuring your rice comes out fluffy and perfectly cooked. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Toast the rice lightly before adding liquids; it enhances the flavor!
- Use the correct liquid ratio—1 cup of rice to 1.25 cups of liquid is usually right.
- After bringing to a boil, cover the pan and reduce the heat. This traps steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly.
- Let the rice sit covered after cooking—this allows any remaining steam to finish cooking it.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your preferred variety)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red or green), optional
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a tasty and hearty dinner ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken thighs (or breasts) on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This enhances the flavor of the chicken beautifully!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned chicken in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Toast the Rice:
Next, without washing the pan, add your rice and toast it for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. This gives the rice a lovely nutty flavor, which adds depth to your dish.
4. Mix in the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth (or water), honey, and barbecue sauce. Give everything a good stir to combine it well before moving on.
5. Add Chicken Back In:
Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing it gently into the rice and sauce mixture. Nestling the chicken will ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs all those delicious flavors!
6. Add Bell Peppers (Optional):
If you chose to include bell peppers, sprinkle them over the rice around the chicken. This adds a colorful crunch to the dish!
7. Cook Together:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let everything simmer for about 18-20 minutes. The rice should be tender, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
8. Let It Rest:
Once cooked, remove the pan from heat but leave it covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish cooking in the steam.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your dish with freshly chopped green onions or parsley for that pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your well-deserved meal!
Dig in and savor the delightful combination of flavors in your one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Increase the simmering time to about 35-40 minutes, and you may need to add a bit more liquid (about 1.5 cups of broth). Check the rice for doneness before serving!
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you don’t have honey on hand, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Recipe with Frozen Chicken?
While it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking, you can use frozen chicken if needed. Simply add an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time, and ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to revitalize the rice.
