Name: One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety); 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp oil for sautéing; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional seasonings: 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; Optional vegetables: 1 cup frozen mixed veggies or 1 diced bell pepper; Optional garnish: chopped green onions or parsley

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I’ve made a delicious and convenient one-pan meal where tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet-savory honey BBQ sauce come together in a single skillet, making dinner both tasty and hassle-free. One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how straightforward this dish is—everything cooks in one pan, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. The honey and BBQ sauce strike the perfect balance of sweet and smoky, while the rice soaks up all those bold flavors. It’s comfort food at its best and comes together quickly—ideal for busy weeknights or when I want a crowd-pleaser without the fuss.

ingredients

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

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
Long-grain rice
Chicken broth
BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
Honey
Salt, pepper, and optional seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika
Oil for sautéing
Optional vegetables like frozen mixed veggies or diced bell peppers
Optional garnish: green onions or parsley

directions

I start by seasoning and searing the chicken in a hot skillet to lock in flavor. Then I add rice directly to the pan and toast it briefly, which keeps it from getting mushy and adds a subtle nutty note. Next, I pour in chicken broth, stir in BBQ sauce and honey, and return the chicken to nestle into the rice. I cover and let it simmer on low until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. If I’m using vegetables, I stir them in near the end so they stay vibrant. Once done, I let the dish rest briefly, fluff the rice, and then garnish before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and about 30 to 35 minutes to cook, so the total time is typically under 40 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes swap chicken thighs for breasts when I want something leaner—thighs stay juicier, but breasts work well when I keep an eye on doneness. If I want extra color and texture, I stir in frozen peas, corn, or diced bell pepper during the last few minutes of cooking. For a flavor twist, I might add smoked paprika, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce, or even substitute teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

storage/reheating

I cool and store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. When it’s time to reheat, I add a splash of broth or water to help revive the rice and heat it gently—either in the microwave (covered) or on the stovetop. This method keeps everything moist and tasty.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from getting soggy?

I make sure to toast the rice before adding the liquids—that helps it hold its shape and adds a toasty flavor. Also, I avoid lifting the lid while it’s simmering so all the steam stays in.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes—I often do. Breasts are leaner but cook more quickly, so I watch them carefully to avoid dryness.

What kind of BBQ sauce works best?

I choose one that I already enjoy eating—sweet, smoky, or spicy options are all great. Sometimes I stir in a little extra honey or hot sauce to tailor the flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. I add frozen mixed veggies or chopped peppers in the last few minutes so they stay crisp and colorful.

How can I make this recipe spicy?

A little cayenne powder, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce added to the sauce works well. I start with a small amount and adjust to my heat preference.

Conclusion

I’ve fallen in love with this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice for its simplicity, bold flavors, and minimal cleanup. With just a few pantry ingredients and a single skillet, it delivers big on comfort and versatility. It’s quickly become one of my go-to meals—easy, hearty, and endlessly adaptable. Let me know if I can help tweak it for dietary needs or preferred ingredients!

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice