One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Introduction
One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is a delicious and easy meal that brings the family together. With tender chicken, savory rice, and a sweet BBQ sauce, this dish is not only flavorful but also super simple to make. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend get-together.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who wants a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll have everything cooked in one pan, which means less cleanup, too! Plus, the combination of honey and BBQ sauce adds a yummy twist that everyone will love. It’s a great way to use simple ingredients and turn them into something special.
How to Make One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for added heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the rice and stir for 1–2 minutes to toast it slightly.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Stir in honey and BBQ sauce until well combined. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- If incorporating vegetables, stir in frozen peas and carrots or diced bell pepper during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Once done, let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
How to Serve One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Serve this dish warm right from the pan! It pairs well with a simple green salad or some crusty bread. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch.
How to Store One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop it in the microwave or warm it up on the stove.
Tips to Make One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
- Always make sure to season your chicken well. It makes a big difference in flavor!
- You can swap the rice for quinoa or brown rice for a healthier option.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce and honey based on your taste.
Variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with chickpeas or tofu. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
2. What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
You can use teriyaki sauce or even soy sauce as a substitute for BBQ sauce.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold.