Title: One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Delicious & Effortless Family Favorite

Craving a quick, flavorful dinner that requires minimal cleanup? One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is exactly what you need.

At dishfoody.com, I believe in making comfort food easy, wholesome, and packed with irresistible flavors. This dish combines succulent chicken, fluffy rice, and a honey BBQ glaze, all cooked together in one skillet.

Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe delivers juicy tender chicken, perfectly seasoned rice, and melt-in-your-mouth goodness in under 40 minutes.

Why This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe Works

  • Uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients found in most pantry stores.
  • Saves time with one-pan cooking, reducing cleanup and meal prep.
  • Flexible enough to customize with your favorite BBQ sauces and vegetables.

Choosing the Right Chicken for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Best Cuts for This Recipe

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts work best. Thighs stay juicy and flavorful, while breasts provide lean protein.

Buying Tips

Select firm, plump chicken with a pale pink color and minimal excess liquid. If using fresh chicken, ensure it is from a reputable source for safety and quality.

Substitutions

Swap chicken for turkey or plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for vegetarian options. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Ingredients & Prep for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless chicken thighs or breasts
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Oil for sautéing

Prep Steps

Dice chicken into bite-sized pieces. Rinse rice until water runs clear. Chop onion and mince garlic for aromatic base.

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Pre-Cooking Prep for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Season chicken with salt and pepper. Prepare rice and chop vegetables in advance to streamline the process.

Cooking Method for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

  1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken, season lightly, and cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).
  3. Stir in rice, coating it with the aromatic oil and vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
  4. Add chicken broth, honey, and BBQ sauce. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
  5. Return chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice. Cover and cook on low heat for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
  6. Remove from heat, let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and serve hot.

Doneness Check for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Ensure rice is fluffy and the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Resting for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Let everything rest covered for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Perfect One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

  • Keep heat low during simmering to prevent burning the rice.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking.
  • Add vegetables like peas or bell peppers during the last 5 minutes for extra color and nutrition.

Flavor Variations for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Spicy Twist

Mix in diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne for added heat.

Keto/Paleo

Replace rice with cauliflower rice, and use sugar-free honey or syrup.

Global Flavors

  • Use a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce for a southwestern twist.
  • Add a pinch of curry powder and coconut milk for a flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
  • Incorporate herbs like thyme and oregano for Mediterranean flair.
VariationKey IngredientDietary TagFlavor Profile
Spicy TwistJalapeños or cayenne pepperSpicyWarming, bold
Keto/PaleoCauliflower rice, sugar-free honeyLow-carbLight, wholesome
InternationalCurry powder, coconut milkExoticAromatic and rich

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh herbs and an extra drizzle of honey BBQ sauce for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with cold brews or sparkling water infused with citrus.

FAQs for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but beware that breasts can dry out if overcooked. Cook for about 15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How do I prevent rice from sticking?
Ensure to stir well and keep heat low. Using a non-stick skillet helps, and don’t lift the lid too often.

Can I prepare this dish ahead?
Yes, assemble the ingredients and cook just before serving for best freshness. Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a savory comfort dish that comes together quickly without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, it’s a foolproof way to enjoy tender chicken, fluffy rice, and smoky sweetness all in one pan. For more easy, flavor-packed recipes, visit dishfoody.com and try our Crispy Korean Popcorn Chicken for your next gathering.

Print

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a sweet, smoky, and savory comfort dish made entirely in one skillet. Tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a sticky BBQ glaze come together for the perfect weeknight dinner.

  • Author: ssam
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 35 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One Pan
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into chunks
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

  • 1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  • 2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • 3. Sear chicken until golden brown on both sides, then remove from the pan.
  • 4. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
  • 5. Add rice and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • 6. Whisk together chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and smoked paprika. Pour mixture into the skillet.
  • 7. Return chicken to the pan and bring everything to a simmer.
  • 8. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  • 9. Stir in corn if using and fluff the rice gently.
  • 10. Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use your favorite BBQ sauce for your preferred flavor — smoky, spicy, or sweet.
  • For extra depth, add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce mixture.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully in a skillet or microwave.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: one-pan honey BBQ chicken rice, easy dinner, skillet meal, BBQ chicken recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating