Dinner

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

ByZoe Lane January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken cooked with sweet and smoky BBQ sauce combines with savory rice and vegetables for a satisfying dish that’s ready in under an hour.

The image shows a close-up of a dish with two main layers: the bottom layer is a mix of cooked white rice with small pieces of green peas, orange carrots, and bits of scrambled egg, giving it a colorful and textured appearance. On top of the rice, there are pieces of grilled chicken coated in a glossy dark brown sauce, arranged evenly over the rice. The chicken pieces have a shiny, slightly sticky look. The dish is set on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup honey
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet.
Step 4: Add the long-grain rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Step 6: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, scatter the mixed vegetables over the rice and chicken. Cover again to steam the vegetables.
Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken thighs for juicier and more flavorful results, but chicken breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat.
Swap mixed vegetables with your favorites such as bell peppers, corn, or peas.
For an extra smoky kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder.
Use homemade BBQ sauce or your preferred brand to tailor the flavor profile.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture. This dish is not recommended for freezing as the texture of rice and vegetables may change.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate filled with a base layer of fried rice mixed with small bits of carrot, peas, and scrambled egg, giving it a colorful appearance of white, orange, green, and yellow. On top of the rice, there is a thick layer of grilled chicken pieces, glazed with a shiny dark brown sauce that looks sticky and sweet. The chicken pieces are spread evenly across the rice, showing a nice contrast between the soft rice and the glossy chicken. The plate rests on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, white rice can be used, but cooking times may vary slightly. Follow package instructions and adjust liquid amounts if needed.

Is it okay to use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work well and can be added directly without thawing, saving prep time.

Zoe Lane