Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the ideal dish for anyone craving comfort food with a bit of a sweet and smoky twist. The chicken cooks in a rich combination of BBQ sauce and honey, resulting in juicy, flavorful pieces that pair perfectly with fluffy rice and vegetables. It’s a complete meal in one, full of savory, sweet, and smoky notes, with minimal effort involved. It’s great for meal prep or a simple family dinner!

Ingredients

Protein:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Grains:

• 1 cup long-grain rice

Liquids:

• 2 cups chicken broth

Sauces:

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
• ¼ cup honey

Spices:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Vegetables:

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped green onions or parsley

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
3. Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture:
   In the same pan, combine the BBQ sauce and honey. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes over medium heat, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Prepare the Rice:
   Add the chicken broth and rice to the pan with the BBQ mixture. Stir to combine, then bring it to a simmer. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Cook the Vegetables:
   In the final 5 minutes of cooking the rice, add the mixed vegetables to the pan. Stir them into the rice and cover again to let them cook.
6. Shred or Slice the Chicken:
   While the rice and vegetables finish cooking, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks or slice it into strips.
7. Combine and Serve:
   Once the rice is cooked and the vegetables are tender, add the shredded chicken back into the pan. Stir everything together and allow it to heat through.
8. Garnish:
   Top with chopped green onions or parsley for an extra pop of color and flavor, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce mixture for some extra heat.
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with plant-based protein or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Different Vegetables: Use any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, carrots, or peas.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used in place of chicken thighs, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry. Thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay juicier.

2. Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

You can, but it will change the cooking time. If using instant rice, reduce the cooking time by about 5 minutes and adjust the liquid accordingly.

3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can. Cook the chicken in the slow cooker with the BBQ sauce and honey for 4 hours on low. Add the rice and vegetables in the last 30 minutes, adding the appropriate amount of chicken broth.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like. Zucchini, corn, or spinach are great additions to this dish.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To spice it up, add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce mixture, or even throw in some diced jalapeños with the vegetables.

6. Can I use a different type of grain?

Yes, you can substitute the rice with quinoa, couscous, or barley. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as needed.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can cook it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

8. What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?

You can use any BBQ sauce you like. A smoky or tangy sauce pairs well with the honey for a balanced flavor, but feel free to choose your favorite style.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice for up to 2-3 months. Store it in an airtight container, and reheat thoroughly before serving.

10. How do I make the rice more flavorful?

For extra flavor, try cooking the rice in chicken broth instead of water, or add a bay leaf, thyme, or other seasonings while it cooks.

Conclusion

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a quick, easy, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy days when you need something satisfying. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet honey BBQ sauce, and tender rice makes for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation!

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