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One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice – Easy Dinner Chicken Recipe

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

A flavorful, one-pan dinner featuring juicy honey BBQ glazed chicken cooked alongside perfectly seasoned, fluffy rice. This easy chicken and rice recipe delivers a sweet, smoky, and savory combination that’s perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family meals.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 500 g 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • ½ cup BBQ sauce smoky or sweet
  • 2 cups chicken broth or stock
Aromatics & Seasonings:
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon chili flakes or cayenne pepper for heat
Garnish (Optional):
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Sesame seeds

Equipment

  • Large skillet or deep pan with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl (optional)

Method
 

Season the Chicken:
  1. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Sear the Chicken:
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
  1. In the same pan, add chopped onions and cook until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Toast the Rice:
  1. Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast.
Add Liquids and Flavor:
  1. Pour in chicken broth, honey, and BBQ sauce. Stir well to combine.
Return Chicken to Pan:
  1. Place the seared chicken back into the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Spoon sauce over the chicken.
Simmer:
  1. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 18–25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Rest and Garnish:
  1. Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

Chicken thighs provide more flavor and remain juicier than chicken breast.
Adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the honey to taste.
For best results, avoid lifting the lid frequently while the rice is cooking.
Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
If using brown rice, increase cooking time and liquid accordingly.