This tasty dish brings together juicy chicken and fluffy rice all cooked in one pan, making clean-up a breeze! The sweet honey and smoky BBQ flavors make every bite delicious.
Who doesn’t love a meal that cooks itself? I love that this dinner is simple to make, and my family devours it every time. Plus, more time for dessert, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I always use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but thighs work wonderfully too! They can stay juicier during cooking. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or chickpeas instead.
Barbecue Sauce: Store-bought BBQ sauce saves time, but you can make your own if you prefer. Try mixing ketchup, vinegar, and a dash of spices. If you’re watching sugar intake, choose a sugar-free BBQ sauce or make a homemade version with less honey.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to for this recipe, but you can substitute with brown rice or quinoa. Just note that cooking times may vary, so adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels. If you prefer, water can work as a base, but broth adds more flavor. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
How Do You Ensure Juicy Chicken in This Dish?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken is essential for this recipe. Start with cutting the chicken into bite-sized chunks to help it cook evenly. Season well with salt and pepper before browning it in hot olive oil. Do not overcrowd the pan, which can trap moisture.
- Heat the oil over medium-high and let it get hot before adding the chicken.
- Cook just until browned and remove promptly. This prevents overcooking.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before serving, which helps retain juices.
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1.5 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one-pan meal takes about 10 minutes of preparation and around 20 minutes of cooking time, making a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper, and then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken until it’s browned on all sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté Garlic and Rice:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the rinsed rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the olive oil and garlic. Let the rice cook for about 1-2 minutes to get it slightly toasted.
3. Combine with Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it starts bubbling, return the browned chicken to the skillet, spreading it evenly over the rice.
4. Cook it All Together:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together!
5. Add the Sauces:
While the chicken and rice are cooking, grab a small bowl and whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, and soy sauce to make a tasty glaze. Once the rice is cooked, pour this sauce evenly over the chicken and rice, gently stirring to coat everything in the sweet and savory mix.
6. Final Touches:
Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Once done, remove from heat, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions, and serve warm.
Enjoy your flavorful, easy-to-make one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice!
FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it fully before cooking. Thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Pat dry with paper towels before adding it to the skillet.
What Can I Substitute for Honey in This Recipe?
If you don’t have honey on hand, you can use maple syrup or agave syrup as a substitute. Both provide a similar sweetness and flavor profile, making them great alternatives that maintain the dish’s essence.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in a skillet on the stove until heated through. If the dish seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water during reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the chicken and rice together, adding the sauce right before serving for the best flavor!
