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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe served in a cast iron skillet topped with green onions.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

A quick and delicious one-skillet meal featuring tender chicken thighs coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, served over fluffy rice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce smoky variety recommended
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables such as peas, carrots, and corn (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil for searing

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven with lid
  • Small mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Season both sides of the chicken evenly. Let sit 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature if time allows.
  2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. Add rice to the same skillet and toast for 1 minute in the residual drippings.
  4. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey until smooth.
  5. Nestle the seared chicken back into the skillet. Add optional mixed vegetables if using. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  6. Remove lid. If excess liquid remains, remove chicken and vegetables, increase heat to medium-high, and reduce liquid while stirring. Return chicken, pour honey BBQ sauce mixture over everything, stir to coat, and simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce thickens.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

Notes

Rice type: Long-grain white rice works best. Jasmine or basmati rice are great alternatives. Brown rice can be used but will require longer cooking time and more liquid. Chicken thighs are recommended for juiciness and tenderness. Chicken breasts can be substituted but may be drier.
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