Create One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice in Just 30 Minutes!

Get ready to experience the ultimate in one-pan meal magic with our One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice! This dish is not only incredibly flavorful but also a breeze to prepare. Tender chicken thighs, savory rice, and a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce all come together in a single skillet for a complete and satisfying dinner that’s sure to be a new family favorite.

The beauty of this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe lies in its simplicity. By cooking everything in one pan, you’ll save time on cleanup and enjoy the convenience of a hassle-free meal. Plus, the combination of succulent chicken, fluffy rice, and that irresistible honey BBQ flavor is simply irresistible.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Perfect One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

To create this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice masterpiece, you’ll need just a few key ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and the sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce is truly irresistible. The paprika, garlic, and onion add depth of flavor, while the fresh parsley garnish provides a bright, herbaceous finish to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

Ready to bring this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice masterpiece to life? Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing the honey and barbecue sauce together in a small bowl until well combined. Set this delectable sauce aside for later.

Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. While the oil heats up, season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken to the pan and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pan, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Add the Rice

Stir the uncooked rice into the pan and let it cook for 1 minute, allowing the grains to become coated in the oil and aromatics.

Combine and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir everything together. Return the seared chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Then, pour the honey BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.

Cook Until Done

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Rest and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips for Perfecting Your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

To ensure your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice turns out absolutely mouthwatering, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Use a large, deep skillet or sauté pan with a tight-fitting lid to accommodate all the ingredients.
• For the best texture, use long-grain white rice, which will become fluffy and tender as it cooks.
• Adjust the spice level by adding more or less paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper, to suit your taste preferences.
• If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Variations and Substitutions for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

While the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe is already a flavor-packed winner, there are plenty of ways to customize it to your liking:

• Protein Swap: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, or try substituting cubed pork or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Rice Alternatives: Experiment with brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a different grain and texture.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced bell peppers, corn, or broccoli florets to the dish for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it Up: Kick up the heat by mixing in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

The One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, but you can also enjoy it with a few tasty side dishes:

• A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette
• Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans
• A side of garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce
• For a refreshing beverage, try a cool glass of lemonade or iced tea

Nutritional Information for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

Each serving of One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice provides approximately:

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 50g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g

To make this dish even healthier, you can use low-sodium broth, opt for leaner chicken breasts, and reduce the amount of honey in the sauce. Serving the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice with a side of fresh vegetables is also a great way to boost the nutritional value.

FAQs About One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

How can I adjust the sweetness of the Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice?

If you find the dish too sweet for your taste, you can easily adjust the sweetness by reducing the amount of honey in the sauce. Start by using half the amount of honey and taste the sauce before combining it with the chicken. Alternatively, you can add a splash of vinegar (like apple cider or balsamic) to balance the sweetness with acidity. If you prefer a savory flavor, consider adding more spices or herbs, such as smoked paprika or chili powder, to complement the BBQ sauce without enhancing the sweetness.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice, but it’s essential to adjust your cooking time. If you’re cooking chicken straight from frozen, you should increase the searing time and ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). One option is to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking, which allows for more even cooking. If using frozen chicken, consider covering the pan with a lid for the first part of cooking to help retain heat and ensure even cooking.

What vegetables can I add to the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice?

Adding vegetables to your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a great way to enhance nutrition and flavor. Consider adding chopped bell peppers, peas, corn, or broccoli during the cooking process. For best results, add them after sautéing the onions and garlic, allowing them to cook alongside the rice. You can also use frozen vegetables, which can be added directly to the dish without thawing. Just be mindful of the cooking times; softer vegetables like spinach can be added in the last few minutes of cooking to wilt them without overcooking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you’d like to add some heat to your One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice, there are several ways to do so. You can incorporate spices such as cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or chili powder into the seasoning for the chicken. Another option is to mix some hot sauce into the honey BBQ sauce before adding it to the dish. For a more subtle heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or serrano peppers with the onions and garlic. Adjust the spice levels to your preference, starting with small amounts and increasing as desired.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bites with Buttered Rotini
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delectable One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice dish. With its unbeatable flavors, easy preparation, and endless customization possibilities, it’s sure to become a new go-to in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!

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