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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
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★★★★★

5.3 from 15 reviews

A flavorful and easy one-pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, combined with perfectly cooked rice and optional mixed vegetables. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal with a delightful balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Rice and Sauce

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Vegetables and Garnish

  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
  • Chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, evenly coat the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to infuse the meat with bold flavors.
  2. Sear the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the seasoned chicken thighs in the pan. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust. Remove the chicken and set it aside temporarily.
  3. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Mix well to create a flavorful honey BBQ sauce with a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes.
  4. Toast the rice: Using the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes. This step adds a subtle nutty flavor to the rice and helps keep the grains separate.
  5. Cook the rice and chicken: Pour in the chicken broth and half of the prepared honey BBQ sauce into the skillet. Stir to combine everything evenly. Return the seared chicken thighs to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
  6. Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the broth and sauce while the chicken finishes cooking through.
  7. Add vegetables: Stir in the mixed vegetables if using, then cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
  8. Rest and garnish: Remove from heat and let the dish sit covered for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot to add freshness and a mild onion crunch.

Notes

  • Using chicken thighs keeps the meat juicy and flavorful, but you can substitute with chicken breasts if preferred.
  • The mixed vegetables are optional but add color and nutrients; frozen peas, carrots, and corn work well.
  • Adjust the honey and BBQ sauce quantities to your taste for sweetness and tanginess.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the BBQ sauce and soy sauce are gluten-free.
  • You can replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
  • Resting the dish after cooking helps redistribute juices and improves texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey BBQ Chicken, One-Pan Chicken Rice, Easy Dinner, Sweet and Tangy Chicken, Weeknight Meal

Find it online: https://hannahdelgado.com/honey-bbq-chicken-rice-recipe/