One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s all about bold flavors, minimal fuss, and maximum comfort, this One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is going to steal your heart (and your appetite!). Imagine tender chicken glazed in a sticky, sweet, and tangy honey BBQ sauce, nestled right on a bed of fluffy, perfectly cooked rice that soaks up every last drop of that delicious sauce. It’s warm, cozy, and packed with so much flavor you’ll be coming back for seconds (or thirds!). Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer for weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

This recipe is all about ease and flavor, making it a winner every time:

Versatile: You can switch up the veggies or swap the rice for quinoa to suit your mood or pantry.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t stretch your wallet.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes and only uses one skillet — less cleanup, more time to relax!
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the sweetness and spice to taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Sweet, smoky, and satisfying — everyone from kids to adults will love it.

Ingredients in One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Let’s break down the magic of this one-pan wonder:

Chicken Thighs or Breasts

Juicy, tender, and the perfect canvas for that sticky honey BBQ glaze.

Honey BBQ Sauce

A sweet and tangy sauce that’s both comforting and exciting for your taste buds.

Rice

The base that soaks up all those luscious flavors, making each bite a delight.

Onion and Garlic

Adds depth and aroma to the dish, creating that irresistible savory backdrop.

Chicken Broth

Keeps the rice moist and infuses extra flavor.

Olive Oil and Seasonings

For a touch of richness and a balanced flavor profile.

(Note: The full ingredients list with measurements is included in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s get this tasty skillet magic going:

Preheat and Prepare

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to get it ready for cooking.

Brown the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then brown it on both sides until golden (not fully cooked). Remove and set aside.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.

Add Rice and Broth

Pour in the rice and chicken broth, stirring to combine and release those toasty rice aromas.

Return Chicken to Skillet

Nestle the browned chicken back on top of the rice.

Pour Honey BBQ Sauce

Drizzle the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice, coating everything in that sticky, sweet goodness.

Simmer Covered

Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Finish and Serve

Remove the lid and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 400

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

This dish shines on its own, but here are some tasty ways to round out your meal:

• Serve with a crisp side salad or steamed greens for freshness
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime for a little zing
• Pair with roasted or grilled veggies for added texture and color

Additional Tips

• Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor.
• If you like spice, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Stir the rice gently halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.
• Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or skillet with a splash of water.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes! Just adjust cooking time as breasts cook a bit faster.

2. What if I don’t have honey BBQ sauce?
Mix BBQ sauce with a little honey or maple syrup for a quick substitute.

3. Can I use brown rice?
You can, but cooking time will be longer and more liquid may be needed.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your BBQ sauce label; some contain gluten. Use a gluten-free BBQ sauce to keep it safe.

5. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, peas, or corn work great stirred in halfway.

6. How do I prevent the rice from burning?
Keep heat low and cover the skillet while cooking to trap steam.

7. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, it reheats well but the rice may absorb more sauce over time.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?
Sure, freeze in airtight containers and thaw before reheating.

9. Can I use a different sweetener than honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar are great alternatives.

10. How spicy is this dish?
It’s mild by default but you can easily add heat with spices or hot sauce.

Conclusion

The One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and downright comforting, all packed into one easy dish. It’s a quick weeknight winner that will have you licking your fingers and asking for more. Plus, the one-pan magic means less mess and more time to savor every bite. Get ready to make this recipe a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

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