Honey bbq chicken and rice
Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a simple, comforting dish that combines tender chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice.…
Tip: save now, cook later.Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a simple, comforting dish that combines tender chicken glazed with a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. The mix of flavors is just right—sweet from the honey, smoky from the BBQ, and hearty thanks to the rice that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
I love making this meal on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly, but still feels special. The honey BBQ sauce is where all the magic happens, and I like to add a little extra drizzle on top before serving. It’s one of those dishes that keeps everyone happy, and it’s easy to customize with some veggies or a side salad if I want something green on the plate.
For me, this dish feels like a warm hug in dinner form—perfect for when I want something filling without a lot of fuss. Sometimes, I even pack leftovers for lunch the next day because the flavors just get better as they sit. It’s a great go-to recipe that never fails to bring smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer chicken thighs because they stay juicy and tender, but chicken breasts work just fine. If you want a lighter option, use skinless chicken breasts or even turkey.
Rice: Long-grain white rice offers a fluffy texture that complements the saucy chicken. You can swap it for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist, but cooking times will vary.
Honey & BBQ Sauce: Honey adds natural sweetness and balances the tangy BBQ sauce. For a less sweet version, reduce honey or try maple syrup. Choose BBQ sauce that suits your taste—smoky, spicy, or mild.
Corn: Corn adds a nice pop of sweetness and texture but is optional. You can substitute with peas or skip it for a simpler dish.
How Do You Get the Chicken Crispy and Well-Glazed with Sauce?
Cooking the chicken right is key to this dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Start with a hot skillet and enough oil to prevent sticking but not swimming in oil.
- Season the chicken well before adding it to the pan for good flavor.
- Don’t crowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for even browning.
- Let chicken pieces cook undisturbed until they develop a golden crust before flipping.
- Once cooked through, add the honey BBQ sauce and toss quickly to coat all pieces.
- Cook just a couple minutes more to let the sauce thicken and stick but avoid overcooking to keep chicken tender.
This process seals in flavor and gives you juicy, flavorful chicken with a sticky, tasty glaze every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and coating it with sauce.
- Medium saucepan – great for cooking rice without sticking or burning.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your honey, BBQ sauce, and spices just right.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken into bite-sized pieces easily.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir rice and toss chicken without scratching your pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a quicker cook time and a seafood twist.
- Add diced bell peppers or sautéed onions for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Mix in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese over the rice for a melty finish.
- Try swapping BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce with honey for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 large chicken breasts or 3 chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 cup water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
- 1/2 cup canned corn kernels (drained)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced thinly
Time Needed:
This meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice, water or chicken broth, and drained corn kernels in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
While the rice cooks, toss the chicken pieces in a bowl with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, making sure each piece is seasoned evenly. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
3. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce and Combine:
In a small bowl, mix together the honey and BBQ sauce until smooth. Pour this sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat all the chicken pieces. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and glaze the chicken nicely.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Spread the cooked rice and corn on a serving plate or individual bowls. Arrange the honey BBQ chicken on top. Garnish generously with chopped parsley and sliced green onions for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture, which helps the chicken brown nicely.
Can I Make Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and rice separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist, and fluff the rice before serving.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce on hand, you can use teriyaki sauce mixed with a little honey for a sweet-savory twist, or try a combination of ketchup, vinegar, and a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic the BBQ flavor.
How Should Leftovers Be Stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.