Dinner

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

ByAndria Russo January 28, 2026January 28, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful and easy dinner that combines tender chicken thighs, sweet honey, and smoky BBQ sauce with perfectly cooked rice. It’s a comforting all-in-one meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with a serving of fried rice topped with grilled chicken pieces. The fried rice contains small bits of orange carrot and green peas, giving a mix of white, orange, and green colors. On the top layer, there are golden brown grilled chicken chunks coated with a shiny, dark brown glaze, arranged evenly across the rice. The textures contrast between the soft rice and the slightly crispy, glazed chicken. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup honey
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken thighs or breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
Step 3: Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the sauce and chicken.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Step 5: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, place the mixed vegetables on top of the rice to steam through.
Step 6: Remove from heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for 30 minutes before cooking.
Use a mix of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, peas, and carrots for added texture and color.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce mixture.
Swap chicken thighs for breasts if you want leaner meat, but watch cooking times closely as breasts can dry out faster.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a dish with a base layer of cooked white rice mixed with small pieces of orange carrots and green peas. On top, there are several uneven chunks of glazed grilled chicken, coated with a shiny brown sauce that looks thick and sticky. The rice has a slightly fluffy texture, while the chicken pieces are caramelized with a rich, glossy finish. The dish is set on a white plate over a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?

Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth quantity and cooking time accordingly, usually about 40-45 minutes.

Can this recipe be made in the oven?

Absolutely. After searing the chicken, combine everything in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes until the rice is cooked through.