Delicious Honey BBQ Chicken served over fluffy rice with a sweet glaze

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and easy meal that brings together sweet and savory flavors. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner and satisfies the whole family. This dish is not only tasty but also comforting, making it a great choice for any occasion. Plus, it contains protein, carbs, and vegetables all in one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze!

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Ingredients :

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
  • Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Directions :

  1. Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.
  2. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
  7. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
  8. After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice.
  9. Cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
  10. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice.
  11. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

You can serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in bowls. It’s great to have it with a side salad or some crusty bread. You can also add extra BBQ sauce on top for those who like more flavor.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

To store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, let it cool completely. Then, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

  • Make sure to use a good quality BBQ sauce for the best flavor.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli to enhance the dish.
  • If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
  • To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken.

variation

You can easily make this dish with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid.

2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a delicious slow-cooked meal.

3. What can I serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.