Description
This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is a deliciously easy meal that brings together tender, juicy chicken with flavorful, seasoned rice all in one skillet. The smoky sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce infuses both the meat and the rice, creating a deeply satisfying dish with minimal cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights or a no-fuss family dinner, it delivers bold flavor and comfort with every bite.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
2 ¼ cups chicken broth
½ cup honey BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Season the chicken on both sides with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, stir in the rice and toast for 1 to 2 minutes over medium heat, absorbing the flavors left from the chicken.
Pour in the chicken broth, honey BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Remove from heat and let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and finish cooking.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Use long grain rice for best texture, as short-grain or sticky rice may become mushy. For a deeper BBQ flavor, brush extra sauce on the chicken halfway through cooking. If using chicken breasts, adjust cook time slightly to avoid drying out. This dish can be made spicier with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes added to the sauce mixture. Leftovers reheat well and make a great lunch the next day.