Name: One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love that this recipe delivers bold, comforting flavors without much effort. Everything simmers together in one pan, so cleanup is a breeze. The BBQ and honey mixture caramelizes beautifully over the chicken while infusing the rice with rich, savory goodness. Plus, it’s a balanced meal with protein, grains, and veggies all in one dish—no need to cook sides separately.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup honey
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

I start by seasoning the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Then, in a large skillet over medium heat, I sear the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown.
In a small bowl, I whisk the BBQ sauce and honey together, then pour it over the chicken in the pan.
I add the rice and chicken broth, giving everything a good stir to combine.
I bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook on low for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
During the last 5 minutes, I scatter the vegetables over the top so they steam gently.
After cooking, I let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice and serving everything hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings and takes about 40 minutes total from start to finish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping lunches in advance.

Variations

Sometimes I switch things up by using chipotle BBQ sauce for a smoky kick or add a splash of hot sauce for heat. If I’m craving extra texture, I top it with shredded cheddar or crispy fried onions right before serving. For a tropical twist, I’ve even added pineapple chunks, which pair amazingly with the honey and BBQ.

Storage/reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat portions in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist. This dish also freezes well—I let it cool completely, then pack it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but I find it takes longer to cook and may need more broth—usually about 10–15 minutes more simmer time.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

I go for a bold or smoky variety to balance the sweetness of the honey, but any favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce will work.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Absolutely. I’ve made this with both, and while thighs are juicier, chicken breasts work just as well if I don’t overcook them.

Can I add more veggies?

Definitely. I’ve added bell peppers, corn, or even spinach toward the end of cooking for extra color and nutrients.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

I keep the heat low and avoid stirring too often while it cooks. Letting it rest at the end before fluffing also helps the rice set nicely.

Conclusion

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is one of my favorite no-fuss meals. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and so easy to make. I love how everything cooks together in one pan, making cleanup simple and dinner stress-free. Whether I’m cooking for family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe always hits the spot.

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice