This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a total winner! Juicy chicken smothered in sweet BBQ sauce and cooked right with flavorful rice makes it a family favorite.
You’ll love how simple it is to prepare—just toss everything in one pan, let it cook, and enjoy a delicious meal without a pile of dishes. It’s like magic! ✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and remain juicy. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a richer flavor or even swap in tofu for a vegetarian option.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you want a healthier option, you could use a sugar-free version or make your own with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices.
Honey: Honey adds a nice sweetness that balances the BBQ flavor. If you’re allergic to honey, agave syrup or maple syrup works well. These will also give a lovely touch of sweetness.
Rice: Long grain white rice gives a nice fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a whole grain option, brown rice can be used, but remember to adjust the cooking time as it takes longer to cook.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken just right can be tricky, but it’s important! Here’s how:
- Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is the safe temperature for chicken.
- Searing the chicken on medium-high heat builds a great flavor. Don’t rush this step; it adds depth to your dish!
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy and delicious.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder if you’re using it. This adds a great flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. This step is important for locking in that juicy flavor. After they’re browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Toast the Rice:
In the same pan, add the rinsed rice. Stir it around for about a minute to toast it slightly. This helps enhance the flavor of the rice!
4. Combine Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, and honey. Pour this mixture over the toasted rice in the skillet. Give it a little stir to combine everything nicely.
5. Add the Chicken:
Now, place the seared chicken breasts right on top of the rice and sauce mixture. Make sure they’re nestled in!
6. Simmer:
Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. The rice should absorb the liquid, and the chicken should cook through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld. After resting, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a vibrant touch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Lastly, scoop everything onto plates and dig in! You’ve created a flavorful, simple dish all in just one pan.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful Honey BBQ Chicken with perfectly cooked rice—all made in one pan!
FAQs for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s crucial to thaw it completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerging it in cold water. Make sure the chicken is patted dry before seasoning!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Rice?
Absolutely! While long grain white rice is the best choice for this recipe, you can use brown rice for a healthier option. Just remember that brown rice will require a longer cooking time—about 35-40 minutes—so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or chicken broth if the rice seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice in advance! You can sear the chicken and mix the rice and sauce together, then store everything in the fridge. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove, adding a touch of liquid if needed, until warmed through.
