One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s a complete meal, combining protein, carbs, and vegetables in one skillet. The honey BBQ sauce is both sweet and smoky, which beautifully complements the juicy chicken and perfectly cooked rice. Plus, the dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup—just one pan! If you love dishes that are flavorful, comforting, and hassle-free, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Sauce:

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

• 2 tablespoons honey

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 1½ cups chicken broth

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)

• 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro, chopped

• Lemon wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Set the sauce aside.

3. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. In the same skillet, cook the chopped onion and bell pepper (if using) for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

5. Stir in the rice, coating it with the vegetables. Add the chicken broth, stirring again, and allow it to simmer for 1 minute.

6. Place the seared chicken on top of the rice mixture. Pour the prepared BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken and rice. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.

7. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

8. Remove from the oven and let it rest uncovered for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lemon wedges before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 40 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for your favorite plant-based protein, like tofu or tempeh, for a vegetarian alternative. Ensure the protein is well-seasoned and cooked thoroughly before adding it to the rice.

• Different Veggies: You can customize the vegetables by adding mushrooms, zucchini, or corn to enhance the flavor. Just make sure to sauté them until they are tender before adding the rice.

• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, try adding some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture for a spicy version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the dish in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes, covering the skillet with foil to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs. However, chicken thighs tend to stay juicier, so you may need to be more careful not to overcook chicken breasts.

Is there a way to make the sauce less sweet?

If you prefer a less sweet sauce, reduce the amount of honey and add a little more apple cider vinegar to balance out the flavors.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the rice and chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to cook, just bake it as instructed.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but note that it will require more cooking time. You may need to increase the chicken broth and baking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until hot.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add chili flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture for an added kick of heat.

Can I use a different type of broth?

You can use vegetable broth or beef broth if you prefer. Chicken broth provides the best flavor for this recipe, but others work well too.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, make sure to use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and soy sauce. You can easily find gluten-free versions at most grocery stores.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s properly cooked.

Can I use a different type of meat?

While chicken is the star of this dish, you can substitute it with turkey. Make sure to adjust cooking times as needed depending on the meat’s thickness.

Conclusion

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the ultimate easy and delicious dinner solution that combines tender chicken, savory rice, and a zesty honey BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a flavorful, hassle-free meal that requires minimal clean-up. Whether you enjoy it as is or add your personal twist, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Try it tonight for a satisfying and mouthwatering meal!