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One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

4.6 from 68 reviews

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal featuring tender honey BBQ chicken thighs cooked with long-grain rice and mixed vegetables in a savory chicken broth. This easy skillet dinner combines sweet and smoky flavors with a perfectly cooked rice base, making it an ideal weeknight recipe that requires minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Rice and Vegetables

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Liquids and Sauces

  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce
  • ¼ cup honey

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Sear the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until it is nicely browned and sealed, developing rich flavor.
  2. Prepare the sauce: While the chicken is searing, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl to create a bold and sweet glaze.
  3. Add sauce to chicken: Pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the browned chicken in the skillet, coating it evenly to infuse the flavors.
  4. Add rice and broth: Stir the uncooked long-grain rice into the skillet, then add the chicken broth. Mix gently to combine the ingredients without disturbing the chicken too much.
  5. Simmer the dish: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the broth and become tender.
  6. Steam vegetables: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken. Cover and let the vegetables steam until just tender.
  7. Rest and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork to mix in the vegetables and serve the chicken and rice hot.

Notes

  • You can use chicken breasts or thighs depending on your preference; thighs will be juicier and more flavorful.
  • If using frozen vegetables, no need to thaw beforehand; they will steam perfectly during the last few minutes.
  • Adjust the level of honey and BBQ sauce to taste for a sweeter or tangier profile.
  • Covered skillet cooking ensures the rice cooks evenly and steams the vegetables simultaneously.
  • Serve with a side of fresh greens or a light salad for a balanced meal.

Keywords: Honey BBQ chicken, one pan meal, chicken and rice recipe, easy dinner, skillet chicken, BBQ sauce, honey glaze, weeknight dinner