This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a complete meal that’s both tasty and simple to make. With sweet honey and tangy BBQ sauce, it gives a savory twist to a classic chicken dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juicy texture, but chicken breasts work just as well. If you need a lighter option, boneless chicken tenders are a great choice too!
Rice: Long-grain white rice gives a great texture, but you could also try brown rice or jasmine rice. Just remember that cooking times may vary with different types of rice.
BBQ Sauce: I recommend using your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you’d like a healthier option, try a homemade version or swap it for teriyaki sauce for a different flavor.
Honey: For a sweeter touch, honey is perfect. However, agave syrup can be a great substitute if you want a vegan option.
How Can I Ensure My Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll get it just right. The key is to keep the pan covered while cooking to trap steam and moisture. Here’s how:
- After adding the rice and broth, stir to combine, but avoid over-stirring as it can break grains and make it mushy.
- Keep the lid on during simmering to retain heat and moisture. This ensures the rice cooks evenly.
- If your rice seems undercooked at the end, add a little extra water and cover it, allowing it to steam for a few more minutes.
Following these tips will help you achieve perfectly fluffy rice every time!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for cooking, totaling roughly 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
Start by preheating a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil. This will help the chicken get nice and crispy.
2. Season and Brown the Chicken:
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s golden brown but not fully cooked through. Once browned, take the chicken out of the pan and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until they become soft and fragrant. This will add wonderful flavor to your dish!
4. Toast the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan, stirring it gently to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes. This helps to enhance its flavor.
5. Combine the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey together. Pour this mixture over the rice in the pan and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
6. Cook the Chicken and Rice Together:
Place the browned chicken pieces right on top of the rice mixture. Cover the pan with a lid, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Try not to lift the lid too much during cooking!
7. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once it’s done cooking, take the pan off the heat and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes sure everything is perfectly cooked. Before serving, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley or green onions if you like!
Enjoy this flavorful, easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends! 🍗🍚
FAQs About Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts are ideal, you can also use chicken drumsticks or thighs on the bone. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as bone-in cuts may take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Use Instead of Rice?
If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, you can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check for doneness as needed!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time! Chop the onions and garlic, mix the sauce, and even brown the chicken earlier in the day. Just store everything separately in the refrigerator, and follow the cooking instructions when you’re ready to eat!
