This one-pan wonder mixes sweet honey and zesty BBQ with juicy chicken and fluffy rice. It’s a quick and tasty meal that’s perfect for busy days!
I love how easy it is to clean up after making this dish. Just one pan means less fuss and more time to enjoy delicious food with my family. Yum! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but you can easily swap them for chicken breasts if that’s what you have. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as breasts tend to cook faster.
Long-Grain White Rice: This is my go-to rice choice for its fluffiness. If you need a substitute, try jasmine or basmati rice. Just remember to adjust the water ratio slightly, as those can cook faster!
BBQ Sauce: I often use a tangy BBQ sauce for added flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could make a homemade version or choose a low-sugar brand. A sweet soy sauce can also work in a pinch, giving it a different twist.
Honey: Honey adds a nice sweetness to balance the BBQ. If you prefer, maple syrup or agave syrup could be good alternatives without losing the sweet flavor.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken while ensuring your rice is also done can be tricky. Here are some steps to help you out:
- Start by searing the chicken on medium-high heat for a good golden color. This locks in moisture and flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done – it should reach 165°F (75°C).
- After you nestle the chicken back into the rice, be sure to cover the pan. This traps steam, helping everything cook evenly.
- Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks, and add a little water if it looks too dry!
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
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes to cook, making the total time around 35 minutes. It’s a quick meal that comes together easily, perfect for busy evenings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and honey until they’re well combined. This will be the star of your dish!
2. Sear the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After searing, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes until they have softened and become fragrant. Yum, your kitchen will smell great!
4. Cook the Rice:
Add the rice to the pan, stirring it to coat evenly with the onion and garlic mixture. Then pour in the chicken broth and stir in half of the honey BBQ sauce mixture.
5. Combine Chicken and Rice:
Return the browned chicken pieces to the pan, nesting them gently into the rice. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
6. Simmer:
Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let everything simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked through (you can use a meat thermometer to check if it has reached 165°F/75°C).
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and spoon the remaining honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice. Let it cook uncovered for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Finally, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if you like, and serve hot!
Enjoy your delicious and easy one-pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs are juicier, you can substitute them with boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time, as breasts may cook faster!
What Can I Use Instead of Rice?
If you’re looking for a different grain, quinoa or couscous can be good alternatives. Just be mindful of the cooking times and adjust the liquid amounts accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist if needed!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken, rice, and BBQ sauce mixture in advance, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, combine and follow the cooking steps!
