Honey BBQ Chicken Rice – Easy One-Pan Dinner with Bold Flavor

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Hello friends, Chef André here.
When you want a dinner that’s bold, comforting, and unbelievably easy, this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice always delivers. Everything cooks together in one pan – juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet-smoky BBQ sauce that soaks into every bite.It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is still simple enough for a busy weeknight. No juggling pots, no complicated steps-just big flavor and happy plates at the table.

sweet smoky chicken rice skillet

If you love one-pan dinners that taste like a treat, this recipe is going straight into your regular rotation.

Why This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Works So Well

This dish is a weeknight winner because it’s:

  • Made in one pan
  • Ready in about 35 minutes
  • Sweet, smoky, and savory
  • Naturally gluten free
  • High in protein and filling

Minimal cleanup, maximum comfort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken & Rice

  • 1½ lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Honey BBQ Sauce

  • ½ cup BBQ sauce (gluten-free)
  • ¼ cup honey
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (gluten-free)

Rice Base

  • 1½ cups long-grain white rice
  • 2½ cups chicken broth (gluten-free)

For Finishing

  • Green onions, sliced
  • Sesame seeds (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Season chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
Add to pan and sear until lightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 3

In a bowl, whisk BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce together.

Step 4

Add rice to the same pan and stir briefly to coat in the remaining juices.

Step 5

Pour in chicken broth and BBQ sauce mixture. Stir well.

Step 6

Return chicken to the pan. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.

Step 7

Remove from heat and rest 5 minutes. Fluff rice, garnish, and serve.

Chef André’s Tips for Perfect One-Pan Rice

  • Cut chicken evenly for uniform cooking
  • Use a pan with a tight-fitting lid
  • Don’t lift the lid while rice cooks
  • Let it rest before fluffing

Rice loves patience.

Easy Variations to Try

  • Add bell peppers or corn
  • Use brown rice (adjust liquid and time)
  • Make it spicy with chili flakes
  • Swap honey for maple syrup

What to Serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

This dish is hearty on its own, but pairs well with:

  • Simple green salad
  • Steamed vegetables
  • Fresh cucumber slices

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth

For safe chicken handling, follow USDA Food Safety guidelines:
https://www.usda.gov/food-safety

FAQ – Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Is this recipe sweet?
Balanced—sweet with smoky depth.

Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, they stay extra juicy.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it reheats very well.

Is it kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild and flavorful.

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving

  • Calories: ~540 kcal
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Carbohydrates: 62 g

Values vary by BBQ sauce brand.

Final Words from Chef André

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is proof that weeknight dinners don’t need to be complicated to be delicious. One pan, bold flavor, and a meal that everyone at the table will ask for again.

If you try it, tell me—extra sauce or extra rice?
Chef André 👨‍🍳

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