This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a yummy dish that combines juicy chicken with sweet BBQ sauce and fluffy rice. It’s quick to make and simple to clean up!
The best part? One pan means less mess! I love how the rice absorbs all the tasty flavors while the chicken stays nice and tender. Perfect for busy nights, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using chicken thighs for their tenderness and flavor. However, chicken breasts can work too. Just be mindful of not overcooking them, as they can dry out more easily.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect here, but you can swap it for basmati or jasmine rice for a twist. Brown rice is also an option; just extend the cooking time accordingly.
BBQ Sauce: Honey BBQ sauce gives a sweet kick, but if you prefer less sweetness, use regular BBQ sauce. You can mix in some honey for sweetness without being overpowering.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth works well too for a lighter flavor. If you’re in a pinch, water is fine, but it won’t be as flavorful.
How Do I Get the Chicken Nice and Brown?
Browning the chicken adds great flavor and texture! The key is to not rush this step. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your pan is hot enough; this helps create a nice crust. A medium-high heat works best.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each piece enough space to sear properly.
- Once in the pan, avoid moving the chicken around too much. Let it sit for 3-4 minutes before flipping.
Perfectly browned chicken enhances the overall taste of the dish!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Rice:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (preferably honey BBQ flavor)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. With just one pan, cleanup is a breeze!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken in the pan and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. When done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Using the same pan, add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are fragrant and translucent. This will add a wonderful flavor to your dish!
3. Prepare the Rice:
Next, stir the rinsed rice into the pan, cooking it for another minute or two. This helps to coat the rice with the remaining oil and slightly toasts it for extra flavor.
4. Combine Sauces:
In a separate bowl, mix together the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey until well blended. Pour this flavorful mixture over the rice in the pan.
5. Add the Chicken:
Place the browned chicken back into the pan on top of the rice. Bring everything to a light simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pan. This helps cook the rice evenly and keeps the chicken moist.
6. Cook to Perfection:
Let the dish cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Make sure to check occasionally that it doesn’t dry out—add a splash more broth or water if needed.
7. Final Touches:
Once done, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Finally, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice! It’s sure to be a hit for dinner!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to fully thaw it first. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results, or submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for a quick option. Cook times may vary slightly if the chicken is still a bit chilly.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the BBQ sauce if it’s meat-based. This dish remains delicious and satisfying!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, adding vegetables is a great idea! You can mix in quick-cooking veggies like bell peppers, peas, or corn during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Make sure to adjust the broth slightly if you’re adding a lot of vegetables to keep everything well-cooked!
