Description
This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a flavorful, one-pot meal combining tender chicken with savory BBQ sauce, sweet honey, and perfectly cooked rice mixed with vegetables. It’s a quick and easy dish ideal for weeknight dinners that offers a delicious balance of smoky, sweet, and hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (half divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (half divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Rice and Vegetables
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Liquids and Sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season the pieces with salt, pepper, and half of the garlic and onion powder, ensuring even coating.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat oil in a skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden on the outside, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Toast the Rice and Spices: Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add the rice to the empty space and toast it for about 1 minute, stirring frequently. Then, sprinkle in the remaining garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika, mixing everything together.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir in the mixed vegetables, combining all ingredients well.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Rest: Turn off the heat and keep the pan covered. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish absorbing any remaining moisture.
- Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference; thighs remain juicy longer.
- If using frozen vegetables, no need to thaw before adding.
- Adjust the BBQ sauce and honey quantities based on your desired sweetness and smokiness.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the spices.
- Make sure to keep the heat low during simmering to prevent the rice from burning.
