Dinner

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful and easy meal that combines tender chicken with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all cooked together with fluffy rice and vegetables. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a satisfying dish that requires minimal cleanup.

This image shows a close-up of a dish with two clear layers. The bottom layer is fried rice with small pieces of green peas and orange carrots scattered throughout, giving a mix of white, green, and orange colors. The top layer consists of small, glossy pieces of cooked chicken with a shiny dark brown glaze, arranged closely together over the rice. The dish is placed on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture over the seared chicken in the skillet.
Step 3: Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 5: About 5 minutes before the cooking time ends, scatter the mixed vegetables on top of the rice and chicken. Cover and allow the vegetables to steam until tender.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ-honey sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use brown rice instead of long-grain for a nuttier taste; just increase cooking time accordingly.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Try swapping mixed vegetables with fresh bell peppers and corn for a different texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a white plate filled with cooked white rice mixed with small pieces of green peas, orange carrot bits, and scrambled eggs, creating a colorful base. On top is a thick layer of grilled chicken pieces that are coated in a shiny dark brown sauce, making them look moist and flavorful. The chicken pieces have a slightly charred texture with visible grill marks. The white marbled surface is softly blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out faster than thighs.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Olivia Monroe