Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice: A Sweet & Savory Delight

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Looking for a quick, flavorful, and hassle-free dinner? This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice recipe is the answer. Combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a sticky-sweet honey BBQ glaze, all cooked in one pan, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that requires minimal cleanup.

 Ingredients (Serves 4)

Protein & Base:

  • 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati preferred)

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Sauce & Seasoning:

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

  • ¼ cup honey

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables & Garnish:

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh—great for added nutrition)

  • Chopped green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)

 Preparation Time

  • Active Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 45 minutes

 Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken

  • Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat.

  • Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

  • Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

  • Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice

  • In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently.

  • Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.

  • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

3. Combine and Simmer

  • Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.

  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the Vegetables

  • After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice.

  • Cover again and cook for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).

5. Serve & Garnish

  • Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice.

  • Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.

  • Serve hot and enjoy!

 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: Approximately 496 kcal

  • Protein: 30 g

  • Fat: 15 g

  • Carbohydrates: 60 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

  • Sugar: 15 g

  • Sodium: 700 mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

 Tips for Perfect One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

  • Chicken Selection: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs can add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.

  • Rice Type: Jasmine or basmati rice works best for this recipe due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.

  • Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas to enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrition.

  • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier kick.

  • Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop.

 Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

  • Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

 Visual Inspiration

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Final Thoughts

This Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a family-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and convenient. With minimal preparation and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Enjoy your meal

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