One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

This quick skillet dinner brings sweet and savory honey BBQ-glazed chicken together with tender, fluffy rice in a single pan. It’s the kind of recipe that looks impressive but is simple enough for a busy weeknight. If you love skillet meals with bold sauces, this dish will become a go to, and you can find similar flavor inspiration in dishes like Bang Bang Chicken Rice Bowl. Prep is straightforward and cleanup is a breeze, so you get a comforting meal without the fuss.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This recipe is a winner when you want a satisfying dinner with minimal effort. Cooking the chicken first builds a golden crust and fond in the pan that flavors the rice as it simmers. The honey BBQ sauce adds glossy sweetness and smoky notes that coat both the chicken and rice for a cohesive dish. Because everything cooks in one skillet, timing is simple and the kitchen stays tidy. It’s also flexible you can swap white rice for brown rice or use a different sauce if you prefer a spicier version. For another fun way to use BBQ chicken in a comforting meal, check out BBQ Chicken Stuffed Sweet Potatoes.

Flavor and Texture

Expect a balance of textures and flavors in every bite the chicken is browned and slightly caramelized while the rice finishes soft and moist. The honey in the BBQ sauce brings a gentle sweetness that plays nicely with savory chicken broth and garlic seasoning. As the rice absorbs the sauce and broth, it takes on a glossy, slightly sticky quality that helps each forkful cling to the chicken. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end adds a bright herbal contrast and a pop of color. Overall, the dish is cozy and familiar with a touch of barbecue brightness.

Ingredients

* 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
* 1 cup of rice
* 1 cup of chicken broth
* ½ cup of honey BBQ sauce
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Step by Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned.
4. Remove the chicken and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the rice and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
6. Place the chicken back in the skillet and pour the honey BBQ sauce over everything.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the broth.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Best Results

Use a pan with a tight fitting lid so the rice steams evenly and doesn’t dry out as it cooks. If you want extra caramelization, sear the chicken on slightly higher heat for the first minute on each side, then reduce to medium to finish browning. Taste the broth before covering and adjust salt or sauce amounts if your BBQ sauce is especially sweet or smoky. If using brown rice, increase the liquid and cook time according to the rice package instructions. Let the skillet rest for five minutes after cooking to allow the rice to settle and flavors to meld.

Storage and Make Ahead

Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to loosen the rice and revive the sauce, or microwave with a damp paper towel over the dish to retain moisture. You can also cook the components ahead keep cooked rice and cooked chicken separately, then combine and warm with extra sauce when ready to serve. For meal prep, portion into containers for easy grab and go lunches.

Final Thought

This one pan honey BBQ chicken and rice is a simple, comforting meal that feels special without demanding time or complex steps. It’s an ideal weeknight dish that also travels well for lunches the next day. Bright garnishes and slight tweaks to sauce or rice type let you make it your own.

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