why make this recipe

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is perfect for busy nights. It combines savory chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet barbecue sauce, giving you a complete meal in one pan. This dish is quick to make and easy to clean up, saving you time after a long day. Plus, it’s delicious and satisfying, ensuring everyone at the dinner table will be happy.

how to make One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Ingredients

1 pound Chicken Thighs or Breasts (Thighs for juiciness or breasts for a leaner option)
1 cup White Rice (Quinoa can be used for a hearty twist)
1/2 cup Honey BBQ Sauce (Homemade version for richer flavor)
1 medium Onion (Add sweetness and depth)
2 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic enhances flavor)
1 tablespoon Hot Sauce (Adjust to your liking)
1/2 cup Cheese (Omitted for dairy-free option)

Directions

Prepare the Chicken: If using chicken thighs or breasts, cut them into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Cook the Onion: In a large pan over medium heat, add a little oil. Chop the onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft.
Add Garlic: Mince the garlic and add it to the pan. Cook for another minute, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.
Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken to the pan. Cook until it turns golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Mix Rice and Sauce: Stir in the rice, honey BBQ sauce, and hot sauce. Make sure everything is well mixed.
Add Liquid: Pour in 2 cups of water (or chicken broth for more flavor). Stir and bring to a boil.
Cook the Rice: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add Cheese: If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and let it melt as you finish cooking.
Serve: After removing from heat, let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

how to serve One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve this dish hot, straight from the pan. It pairs well with a simple salad or some steamed vegetables on the side. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and garnish.

how to store One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

tips to make One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Use a good quality honey BBQ sauce for best flavor.
For added nutrition, you can mix in some frozen vegetables like peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
If you want it spicier, add extra hot sauce or some red pepper flakes.

variation

You can easily switch the protein in this recipe. Try using shrimp or tofu for a different taste. You can also add black beans or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid. Brown rice usually takes longer to cook.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Make sure to use a gluten-free BBQ sauce and check that the rice you are using is certified gluten-free.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the ingredients and mix the sauce ahead of time. You can also cook and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat when you’re ready to eat.