Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
If you’re craving a meal that is both comforting and packed with flavor, look no further than this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken thighs infused with a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, all nestled atop fluffy long-grain rice cooked in savory chicken broth. With a perfect balance of textures and a delightful harmony of sweet, smoky, and savory notes, Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, you only need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this dish so irresistible.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs: They stay juicy and tender when cooked, providing rich flavor.
- Long-grain rice: This variety keeps light and fluffy, absorbing the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and savory notes to the rice as it cooks.
- BBQ sauce: The star of the dish; choose a smoky, tangy sauce for best results.
- Honey: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the tang of the BBQ sauce.
- Garlic powder and onion powder: These spices add warmth and complexity to the chicken seasoning.
- Smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor, complementing the BBQ sauce perfectly.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Mixed vegetables (optional): For a pop of color, texture, and nutrition.
- Chopped green onions: Fresh garnish that adds brightness and crunch.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by seasoning your boneless, skinless chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple spice mix builds a foundation of flavor that makes the chicken irresistible once cooked.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken thighs for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful caramelized crust. Once seared, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce
In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. This homemade sauce blend is going to give the dish its signature sweet and smoky flavor that defines Honey BBQ Chicken Rice.
Step 4: Toast the Rice and Add Liquids
In the same skillet, toast the uncooked long-grain rice for 1 to 2 minutes. This step adds a subtle nuttiness to the rice. Then, pour in the chicken broth and half of the honey BBQ sauce, stirring everything to combine.
Step 5: Simmer with the Chicken
Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Pour the remaining honey BBQ sauce over the top. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, allowing everything to simmer for 15 minutes so the rice absorbs all those fabulous flavors.
Step 6: Add Vegetables and Finish Cooking
If you’re using mixed vegetables, stir them in now. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Let the dish sit off the heat for 5 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
How to Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Garnishes
Chopped green onions are the perfect finishing touch for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. They add a fresh crunch and vibrant color that brightens the rich dish. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for an extra hint of texture and nutty flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli to balance the richness of the chicken and rice. For an indulgent touch, creamy coleslaw brings a cooling contrast that complements the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in cute mason jars for meal prep or picnics. Or plate it elegantly with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce and a lemon wedge on the side to add a citrusy zing. You can also sprinkle crushed peanuts or fresh cilantro for an exciting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as enjoyable as fresh!
Freezing
This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Freeze in portion-sized airtight containers so you can grab a delicious meal anytime. Just be sure to thaw completely in the fridge before reheating to keep the chicken juicy.
Reheating
Reheat your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Heat until warmed through, and sprinkle fresh green onions again for that pleasant crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work, though thighs stay juicier and more flavorful. Just be careful not to overcook breasts, as they can dry out quicker.
Is long-grain rice essential for this recipe?
Long-grain rice is recommended because it stays fluffy and separate. Short-grain types might be too sticky or clingy, altering the texture of this dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth. The honey BBQ sauce will still give you that delicious sweet and smoky flavor.
How spicy is the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
This recipe is mildly spiced thanks to smoked paprika and the tangy BBQ sauce, but it’s not hot. You can add chili flakes or hot sauce if you like a little heat.
What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
For best results, go for a smoky and slightly tangy BBQ sauce. Mesquite or hickory flavors work beautifully to enhance the dish’s depth without overpowering the honey’s sweetness.
Final Thoughts
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is truly one of those comforting dishes that feels like it was made just for you. Easy to prepare, packed with vibrant flavors, and perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a much-loved staple. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become your go-to meal when you want that perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory all in one bowl!
Print
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful one-pan dish combining tender, boneless chicken thighs with smoky BBQ sauce, honey, and perfectly cooked long-grain rice. Easy to prepare and garnished with fresh green onions, it’s a delicious and comforting American dinner option with a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor.
- Sear Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined to create a sweet and smoky glaze.
- Toast Rice: In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes to bring out a nutty aroma and prevent clumping.
- Add Broth and Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and half of the prepared sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer with Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Pour the remaining sauce over the chicken, then cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to cook.
- Add Vegetables: Add mixed vegetables if using, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is tender, vegetables are cooked, and chicken is fully cooked through.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from heat and let the dish rest covered for 5 minutes to thicken the sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use long-grain rice for the best texture and fluffiness.
- Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of honey based on your preference.
- For extra smokiness, try using mesquite or hickory-flavored BBQ sauce.
- To make a vegetarian version, substitute chicken thighs with firm tofu or chickpeas for added protein.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, BBQ chicken rice, one-pan chicken recipe, easy dinner, American chicken recipe, sweet and smoky chicken, chicken thighs with rice
