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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 19 reviews

A flavorful and easy one-pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice dish combining tender chicken thighs with a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce, cooked together with rice and vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Rice and Sauce

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey

Optional & Garnish

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season Chicken: In a bowl, season the boneless, skinless chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the meat’s natural flavors.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the seasoned chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove from the skillet and set aside to retain their juices.
  3. Prepare Sauce Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the BBQ sauce and honey thoroughly to create a sweet and tangy glaze.
  4. Toast Rice: Using the same skillet, add the uncooked long-grain rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring continuously to lightly brown the rice and bring out its nutty aroma.
  5. Add Broth and Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth along with half of the prepared BBQ honey sauce, mixing well to integrate flavors with the rice.
  6. Return Chicken & Add Sauce: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet over the rice, then pour the remaining BBQ honey sauce evenly over the chicken pieces to ensure they soak up the glaze.
  7. Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and chicken to cook thoroughly.
  8. Add Vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables if using, cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot for a fresh, colorful touch.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts if preferred, but thighs keep the dish moister.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
  • If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the seasoning.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control sodium levels for a healthier version.
  • Letting the dish sit after cooking helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid for better texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, One-Pan Chicken and Rice, Easy Chicken Dinner, Sweet and Smoky Chicken, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://nataliereeve.com/honey-bbq-chicken-rice-recipe/