Description
A flavorful and comforting Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe featuring tender seared chicken thighs simmered in a savory mix of BBQ sauce, honey, and spices, cooked together with rice and mixed vegetables for a complete and satisfying one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for searing (such as vegetable or olive oil)
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ¼ cup honey
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Warm a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the chicken and rice.
- Season the chicken: Evenly coat the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for a robust flavor base.
- Sear the chicken: Add a small amount of oil to the skillet, then sear the seasoned chicken for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the exterior is golden brown. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Toast the rice: In the same skillet, add the uncooked long-grain rice and toast it by stirring continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Add liquids and sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey to the skillet with the toasted rice, stirring well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Return chicken to pan: Place the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, nestling them into the liquid and rice mixture.
- Simmer: Bring the contents of the skillet to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let simmer for 15 minutes to cook the rice and chicken thoroughly.
- Add vegetables: Layer the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken, then cover and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the rice is tender and vegetables are heated through.
- Rest before serving: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the rice to finish steaming.
- Garnish and serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot for a delicious and hearty meal.
Notes
- You can use either chicken thighs for juicier meat or chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce and honey to taste for desired sweetness and tanginess.
- Frozen mixed vegetables work well and save prep time, but fresh vegetables can add extra crunch and color.
- Make sure to cover the pan tightly during simmering to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Letting the dish rest before serving helps improve texture and flavor integration.
