This tasty one-pan dish brings together juicy honey BBQ chicken and fluffy rice, all cooked together for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights!
I love how all the flavors meld together, making each bite a treat. Plus, it’s so simple that my kids can help—who doesn’t enjoy a little kitchen teamwork? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they cook quickly. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier flavor. Shredded rotisserie chicken is also a time-saver!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to since it cooks evenly. You can swap it for brown rice, just remember to increase the liquid and cooking time. Instant or jasmine rice are other good options if you’re in a hurry.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor. If you want a healthier option, low-sugar BBQ sauce or homemade sauce works well too. For extra kick, try a spicy BBQ sauce!
Honey: For sweetness, honey is ideal, but maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives if needed. They alter the flavor a bit, but still taste great!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy and Flavorful?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll keep it juicy! Start by seasoning your chicken before cooking—this helps it absorb flavors. When browning the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to sear nicely. This adds a great layer of flavor!
- Use medium-high heat and aim for a golden brown color.
- After removing the chicken, let it rest briefly before adding it back to keep the juices inside.
Remember, when you cover the pan while cooking the rice, it helps steam the chicken, keeping it tender and delicious.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in just about 30 minutes—perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if you like a little extra flavor. This step sets the stage for a tasty dish!
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces and cook, stirring occasionally. You want them to be nicely browned, about 4-5 minutes, but they don’t need to be fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside for now.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Using the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. This will add a lovely flavor base for the rice!
4. Add the Rice:
Add the uncooked rice into the pan and stir well to coat it in the oil and garlic. This step gives the rice lots of flavor as it cooks.
5. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil—this helps cook the rice perfectly!
6. Combine Chicken and Rice:
Lower the heat to a simmer, and return the chicken pieces to the pan. Spread them evenly over the rice so they cook together.
7. Cover and Cook:
Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 15-18 minutes. This will allow the rice to get tender and absorb all that flavor while ensuring the chicken finishes cooking through.
8. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
While the chicken and rice cook, whisk together the barbecue sauce and honey in a small bowl. This sauce is the star that brings everything together!
9. Drizzle the Sauce:
Once your rice and chicken are cooked, remove the lid and drizzle the honey BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
10. Stir Carefully:
Gently stir the chicken and sauce together, making sure everything gets a nice coating without breaking the chicken pieces.
11. Warm the Sauce:
Leave the pan uncovered and cook for another 2-3 minutes over low heat to warm the sauce through. This makes sure every bite is delicious!
12. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions before serving. And there you have it—your sweet and savory honey BBQ chicken and rice, ready to delight your taste buds!
This recipe serves about 3-4 people, making it a fantastic quick meal for family or friends. Enjoy your one-pan feast!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Use 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and cook for about 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Keep the lid on during cooking to trap steam!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the rice.
Can I Make This Recipe with Other Proteins?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with diced pork, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as shrimp cooks quickly and tofu might need a bit more seasoning!
What Can I Serve on the Side?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to add more color and nutrition. Roasted broccoli or green beans would pair nicely!
