There’s something heartwarming about the way a comforting meal can transform even the most hectic days into cozy moments. Picture this: you’re winding down after a long day, the kitchen filled with the mouthwatering scent of honey BBQ chicken sizzling away while rice gently simmers nearby. This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice blends savory flavors with a hint of sweetness, creating a dish that wraps you in warmth.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love <strong>One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice</strong>?
- <strong>One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Ingredients</strong>
- How to Make One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
- Make Ahead Options
- What to Serve with <strong>One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice</strong>?
- <strong>One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice</strong> Variations
- Expert Tips for One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
- How to Store and Freeze One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
- One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs
As I whipped this up one chilly evening, the vibrant hues of red bell pepper and golden corn brought a burst of color to my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. Plus, it’s the ideal solution for those of us looking to break free from the monotony of fast food—this recipe is quick, simple, and, most importantly, delicious. Gather around the table with family or friends, and watch as everyone digs in. Not only is it satisfying, but it also makes clean-up a breeze, allowing you more time to savor the meal and the company. Are you ready to treat yourself to a plate full of comfort? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice?
Simplicity made scrumptious: This one-pan wonder means less fuss and easy clean-up, perfect for busy evenings.
Flavor explosion: Combining sweet honey with tangy BBQ sauce creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist.
Colorful appeal: Vibrant veggies like red bell pepper and corn add a beautiful touch and extra nutrients.
Family-friendly: Everyone will love this dish, making it a weekly favorite that brings loved ones together.
Quick and satisfying: Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s the perfect comfort food solution for your cravings.
One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These are juicy and flavorful, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat.
• Kosher salt – Enhances the chicken’s natural flavors; feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs.
• Black pepper – Adds a hint of heat; freshly cracked pepper offers the best flavor.
• Smoked paprika – Brings a lovely smokiness and rich color to the dish.
• Garlic powder – A convenient way to infuse subtle garlic flavor without chopping.
• Onion powder – Adds depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the chicken.
For the Rice Mixture
• Olive oil – Used for searing the chicken; can be replaced with another cooking oil if desired.
• Yellow onion – Provides sweetness and texture; finely diced for even cooking.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for a wonderful aroma and flavor boost.
• Long-grain white rice – Rinsed and drained to prevent stickiness; provides the perfect base.
• Low-sodium chicken broth – Keeps the dish flavorful without being overly salty; you can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
• BBQ sauce – The star of this dish that ties everything beautifully together; use your favorite brand!
• Honey – Adds sweetness to balance the BBQ sauce; adjust the amount to your taste.
• Tomato paste – Contributes to a rich depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Apple cider vinegar – Brightens the overall flavor profile with some acidity; can be omitted if desired.
• Worcestershire sauce (optional) – Adds an umami kick, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer.
For the Veggies
• Frozen corn – Convenient, sweet, and colorful, enhancing the dish’s texture; fresh corn can also be used.
• Red bell pepper (optional) – Great for adding crunch and sweetness; colorful veggies are always a treat!
• Green onions – Finely sliced for a fresh garnish that adds a pop of flavor and color.
This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your comfort food cravings!
How to Make One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season it with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step ensures each bite is flavorful and enticing.
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Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
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Cook the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds for a fragrant base.
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Toast the Rice: Stir in the rinsed and drained long-grain white rice. Toast the rice in the skillet for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Stir well, scrapping up any browned bits from the skillet for additional flavor.
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Simmer the Dish: Bring everything to a gentle simmer and nestle the seared chicken back into the rice. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Add the Veggies: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen corn and diced red bell pepper. Cover the skillet again so they can heat through perfectly.
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Fluff and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes (still covered). Finally, fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve warm.
Optional: Serve with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice are perfect for busy weeknights! You can season the chicken thighs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can prepare the rice mixture (excluding the corn and bell pepper) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, simply sauté the onions and garlic as directed, mix in the prepared rice, broth, and seasonings, then nestle in the marinated chicken. Finish cooking as per the original recipe, and you’ll enjoy just as delicious results without the rush!
What to Serve with One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice?
Imagine creating the perfect spread that enhances the heartwarming essence of your meal and leaves everyone wanting more!
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Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic are perfect for soaking up the delightful flavors from the BBQ chicken and rice.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots and zucchini add a sweet roasted flavor that complements the dish’s savory notes beautifully.
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Creamy Coleslaw: This crunchy slaw, with its perfect balance of tang and sweetness, helps brighten the rich flavors of your honey BBQ chicken.
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Macaroni and Cheese: Indulge in the creamy goodness of mac and cheese; its comforting texture pairs delightfully with the succulent chicken and rice.
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Chilled Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade adds a zesty kick that balances out the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, warm chocolate chip cookies are the ultimate sweet ending to your family dinner, creating smiles all around.
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Apple Crisp: A warm, cinnamony apple crisp adds a delightful fruity finish, providing a lovely contrast to your hearty main dish.
Get ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal that satisfies cravings and fills hearts.
One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into this dish, turning every meal into a delightful surprise!
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Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist that’ll warm your heart.
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Whole Grain Swap: Substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, making it a wholesome choice.
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Pineapple Bliss: Mix in a half cup of crushed pineapple during the last few minutes of cooking for a tropical sweetness that pairs beautifully with BBQ.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro before serving for an aromatic boost that awakens the taste buds.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the dish right before serving for a zingy brightness that elevates the flavors.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a half cup of cream cheese or Greek yogurt into the rice before serving for a creamy, rich texture that delights.
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Veggie Variety: Swap the corn and bell pepper for diced zucchini and carrots, elevating nutrition while keeping it colorful and appetizing.
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Sweet BBQ Upgrade: Experiment with different BBQ sauces, like teriyaki or honey mustard, to make this dish uniquely yours with each preparation.
Expert Tips for One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
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Perfectly Seasoned Chicken: Make sure to season the chicken generously with spices to enhance its flavor. A common mistake is skimping on seasoning, which can lead to bland results.
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Rinse Your Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky. Skipping this step can result in clumpy rice.
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Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the simmering process; too much cooking can lead to mushy rice. Achieving the right balance will ensure perfectly cooked One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other veggies like peas or carrots, but be mindful not to overcrowd the pan and compromise the cooking process.
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Resting is Key: Allow the dish to rest covered after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together and results in a more flavorful meal.
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BBQ Sauce Choice: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personal touch! Different sauces can create diverse flavor profiles, tailoring the dish to your comfort food craving.
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant.
Freezer: Freeze the dish in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and maintain the quality of your comforting meal.
One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal for this One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice, as they stay juicy and tender. However, if you prefer a leaner option, you can swap them for chicken breasts. Just remember that chicken breasts may cook a bit faster, so keep an eye on them!
How should I store leftovers?
For the best taste and texture, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation. I often label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Can I freeze this dish?
Very much! To freeze One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice, transfer it to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, allowing for some space, as the rice may expand. It will hold up well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
Reheating is a breeze! Once thawed, you can reheat the dish on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the rice appears dry, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist and flavorful. Alternatively, heat it in the microwave in 1-2 minute bursts, stirring in between until it reaches your desired temperature.
What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
When it comes to dietary considerations, this dish can easily be adapted. For those with gluten allergies, ensure that your BBQ sauce is gluten-free. If you or your diners have allergies to certain veggies, you can leave out the red bell pepper and corn, or substitute with other favorites like peas or carrots. Always check ingredient labels for any specific allergens, especially with sauces.
How can I ensure my rice turns out perfectly?
To prevent overcooked or sticky rice, rinse the long-grain white rice before adding it to the dish. This removes excess starch that can cause clumping. Additionally, monitor the cooking time closely; aim for tender rice, not mushy! If you find your rice is not cooking as expected, you can add a bit more chicken broth to help it along.
Irresistibly Easy One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken dry and season it with kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate to rest.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Stir in the rinsed and drained long-grain white rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and scrap up any browned bits.
- Bring to a gentle simmer and nestle the seared chicken back into the rice. Cover and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 18–20 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes, stir in the frozen corn and diced red bell pepper.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with green onions, and serve warm.
