why make this recipe
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a perfect dish for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken thighs with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, served over fluffy rice. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to prepare and can be made in one pan. It’s a great way to get a hearty meal on the table that everyone will enjoy!
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 and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add the 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 the pan and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot, directly from the skillet to the plate. You can garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor and color. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some fresh fruit to balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
To store leftovers, let the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice cool down to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze any leftovers for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan when searing the chicken. If needed, cook in batches for better browning.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in the BBQ sauce and honey mixture for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to boost the nutritional value.
variation
You can easily swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breast or even use tofu for a vegetarian option. Changing the BBQ sauce to a different flavor, like teriyaki or sweet chili, can also give a new twist to the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. What can I substitute for honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, you can use maple syrup or agave nectar for a similar sweetness.
3. Is this dish spicy?
No, this dish is not spicy. The flavors are sweet and tangy. If you prefer some heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs You may substitute with chicken breast or tofu.
- 1 cup long-grain rice Brown rice can be used, but adjust cooking time.
- 2 cups chicken broth Increase the amount if using brown rice.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite flavor.
- 1/4 cup honey Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional) Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
- In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, and minced garlic.
Cooking
- In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes.
- Add the 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 the pan and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add the mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the dish sit for 5 minutes.
Serving
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot, paired with a side salad or fresh fruit.
