Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice! This dish beautifully combines the savory goodness of BBQ chicken with fluffy rice and a touch of sweet honey. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma make it an instant crowd-pleaser, perfect for family meals, potlucks, or any casual gathering with friends.
The sensory experience is delightful, with the sizzle of cooking chicken and the sweet, tangy aroma that fills your kitchen. Each bite offers a balance of smoky, sweet flavors that will leave everyone craving more. In this article, you’ll discover how to prepare this delicious dish, along with serving tips, variations, and storage guidance. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients you can easily find.
- Ease of Preparation: Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein and vitamins from chicken and vegetables.
- Versatility: Great as a main dish or side, with options for customization.
- Presentation: Visually appealing, making it suitable for gatherings or family dinners.
This dish is sure to impress everyone at your table!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Note that times may vary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How To Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables (if using), cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in bowls or on plates for a beautiful display.
- Accompaniments: Fresh salad or crusty bread pairs well for a complete meal.
- Portions: This recipe serves about 4, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Beverage Pairing: Try pairing with iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing touch.
Complete your dining experience with this delightful dish!
Additional Tips
- Enhance flavors with a splash of lemon juice when serving.
- Customize with your choice of vegetables or add spices for extra heat.
- For a fun twist, serve in lettuce cups for a fresh take.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat.
- Different Proteins: Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for variety.
- Rice Alternatives: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Allow to cool, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Special Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Spoon for stirring
- Knife and cutting board
FAQ’s
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, frozen chicken is fine; just ensure it’s fully cooked before serving.
- Is this recipe healthy? Yes, it’s nutritious with lean protein and can be loaded with vegetables.
- Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! You can pre-cook the chicken and rice separately and combine them later.
- Can I customize this recipe? Sure! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- What if I don’t have a skillet? You can use a large pot or slow cooker to achieve similar results.
Conclusion
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a fantastic dish that brings together healthy ingredients and amazing flavors. It’s perfect for family gatherings or quick weeknight meals. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this wonderful recipe!

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables (if using), cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.





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