Delicious Honey BBQ Chicken served over rice with fresh garnishes.

Why Make This Recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The sweet and tangy flavor of honey and BBQ sauce, combined with tender chicken and fluffy rice, creates a delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires only a few simple ingredients, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cooks.

How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish

Directions:

Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half of the sauce mixture. Stir to combine.
Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
If using, add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

How to Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot right from the skillet. It pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. You can also place some extra BBQ sauce on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of flavor.

How to Store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet or microwave until heated through. If you want to freeze it, place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken; this helps get a nice golden crust.
Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, carrots, or bell peppers work great.
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for a few hours before cooking.

Variation

For a healthier twist, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. It will take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also use firm tofu instead of chicken for a vegetarian version of this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can replace chicken thighs with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They will cook faster, so monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.

2. What can I serve on the side?
This dish goes well with a side salad, coleslaw, or even some garlic bread.

3. Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or serve it with a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the heat.