Why Make This Recipe
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and wholesome meal that combines the sweetness of honey and the smoky flavor of BBQ sauce. This recipe is simple to make and brings together tender chicken, fragrant rice, and a touch of veggies for added nutrition. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
How to Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Serve this delightful dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions. You can pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread. It also works well for meal prep, making it a great option for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
How to Store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
To store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, place the cooled rice in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness by adding more or less honey to the sauce.
- You can swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer.
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce mixture for a few hours before cooking.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots. You can also experiment with different types of rice, like jasmine or brown rice, for a unique twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure that it cooks thoroughly.
2. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is perfect for meal prep. Just store it in individual containers and reheat when ready to eat.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for about 4-6 hours or on high for about 2-3 hours.
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
- In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes. Add chicken broth and half the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Return the chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
- Let sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.