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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

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4.2 from 30 reviews

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe combines tender seared chicken thighs or breasts with flavorful BBQ sauce, honey, and seasoned rice cooked all together in one pan. The dish is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a quick 35-minute meal that serves the whole family. Mixed vegetables add color and nutrients, making this a balanced and delicious weeknight dinner option.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 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
  • Drizzle of oil for searing

Rice and Sauce

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
  • ¼ cup honey

Vegetables and Garnish

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
  • Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the pan: Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat to prepare for searing the chicken.
  2. Season the chicken: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper evenly on both sides.
  3. Sear the chicken: Add a drizzle of oil to the hot pan and place the seasoned chicken pieces in. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. Toast the rice: In the same pan, add the uncooked long-grain rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains and enhance flavor.
  5. Add liquids and sauce: Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey until well combined.
  6. Return chicken to pan: Nestle the seared chicken back into the rice mixture, ensuring it is partially submerged.
  7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15 minutes to cook the rice and chicken evenly.
  8. Add vegetables: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice evenly.
  9. Finish cooking: Cover the pan again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender, the chicken is fully cooked with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the vegetables are heated through.
  10. Rest and serve: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can use either chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference; thighs will provide a juicier result.
  • If using frozen mixed vegetables, there is no need to thaw them before adding to the dish.
  • Adjust the amount of honey and BBQ sauce to control sweetness and tanginess according to taste.
  • For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce with the seasonings.
  • Make sure the pan is covered properly during simmering to ensure even cooking of rice and chicken.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American