Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Update : January 11, 2026

Honey BBQ Chicken served over rice with a drizzle of sauce

why make this recipe

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. The sweet and tangy flavors from the honey and BBQ sauce complement the tender chicken and fluffy rice. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward! This recipe is simple, quick, and sure to please everyone at the table.

how to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Ingredients:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup honey
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)
Chopped green onions for garnish

Directions:

Season the chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
In the same pan, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes until it begins to smell nutty. Then, add the chicken broth and half of the sauce mixture. Stir to combine.
Return the browned chicken to the pan and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Cover the pan and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
If using, add mixed vegetables, cover again, and cook for another 5 minutes or until the rice is tender, and the chicken is cooked through.
Let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

how to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot, straight from the pan. It makes for an excellent main dish and pairs well with a side salad or some fresh bread. The garnished green onions add a nice pop of color and freshness.

how to store Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

You can store any leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave it until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.

tips to make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Make sure the chicken is well-seasoned before cooking for the best flavor.
Toasting the rice before adding the broth enhances its nutty flavor.
Feel free to use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
Adding mixed vegetables not only enhances the flavor but also adds color and nutrition.

variation

You can easily switch up the flavors by using different types of sauces, such as teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce. You could also use brown rice instead of white rice, but remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts if you prefer. Just keep in mind that they may cook faster, so check for doneness sooner.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge and then cook them together when ready to serve.