There’s something magical about one-pan meals, isn’t there? They’re like a cozy hug in a dish—easy to prepare, quick to clean up, and oh-so-delicious! My absolute favorite is this BBQ Chicken and Rice: One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice. Just imagine sinking your teeth into tender chicken slathered in sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, with fluffy rice soaking up all that flavor. It’s a dish that brings everyone together around the table, and I remember the first time I made it for my family. My kids were diving into their plates, and my husband kept asking for seconds! It’s not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your home too!

Ingredients List

4 chicken thighs, skinless and boneless for easy cooking
1 cup rice, uncooked (I love using long-grain, but any kind you prefer works)
1 cup chicken broth, for that extra flavor boost
1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce, sweet and tangy, adjust based on your taste!
1 tablespoon olive oil, for browning the chicken
1 teaspoon garlic powder, because garlic makes everything better
1 teaspoon onion powder, adding a little depth to the flavor
Salt and pepper to taste, don’t forget to season it well!
1 cup mixed vegetables (optional, but I love adding some color and nutrition)

How to Prepare BBQ Chicken and Rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on this delicious one-pan wonder! First, heat up that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. You want it hot enough to get a good sear on the chicken, so don’t rush this step! While the oil is heating, season your chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper—make sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.

Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken thighs in the pan. Brown them for about 5 minutes on each side; you want them golden and crispy! Now, here’s where the magic happens: add 1 cup of uncooked rice, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1/2 cup of honey BBQ sauce to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 20 minutes. This is when the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors! After 20 minutes, check to see if the rice is tender; if you’re adding mixed vegetables, throw them in now and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld even more!

Tips for Success

For the best results, consider marinating your chicken in the honey BBQ sauce for a few hours—or even overnight! It really enhances the flavor and makes the chicken super juicy. If you prefer using chicken breasts instead of thighs, just be mindful that they can cook faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid drying out. And remember, adjusting the amount of BBQ sauce can give you the sweetness or tanginess you crave. Don’t be shy; taste as you go! This dish is all about making it your own and enjoying every bite.

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. However, here’s a general idea of what you can expect per serving: around 450 calories, 20g of fat, 25g of protein, and 45g of carbohydrates. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s also gluten-free! Feel free to adjust the ingredients to better fit your dietary needs or preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
One-pan cooking means less cleanup, which is always a win!
Flavor-packed with tender chicken and delicious honey BBQ sauce
Customizable—add your favorite veggies or adjust the BBQ sauce to your liking
Healthy and satisfying, with a good balance of protein and carbs
Great for meal prep; leftovers are just as tasty the next day!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this BBQ Chicken and Rice! Try swapping the chicken thighs for juicy drumsticks or even shrimp for a quick-cooking option. For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some smoked paprika to the seasoning mix. You could also experiment with different BBQ sauces—maybe a spicy chipotle or a zesty teriyaki for a twist! And don’t forget about the veggies; throw in some bell peppers, corn, or even pineapple for a sweet contrast. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

This BBQ Chicken and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your dinner even more, pair it with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works wonders to balance the richness of the BBQ sauce. You could also serve it alongside some roasted vegetables—think carrots, broccoli, or even sweet potatoes for a sweet contrast. And if you’re in the mood for something extra, some warm, buttery cornbread never hurts! Trust me, the combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover BBQ Chicken and Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing it up! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is on the stovetop. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also pop it in the microwave; just cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it moist. Enjoy your flavorful leftovers!

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice usually takes longer to cook, so you might need to adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. Aim for about 45-50 minutes of cooking time if you’re using brown rice.

What if I don’t have chicken thighs?
No worries! You can definitely use chicken breasts or even drumsticks instead. Just be cautious with the cooking time, as breasts can dry out quicker, while drumsticks may need a bit longer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! This BBQ Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when you’re ready to dig in!

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, try adding a bit of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce or sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. It’s all about your spice preference!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is! Just be sure to use gluten-free BBQ sauce, and you’re all set for a delicious gluten-free meal.

BBQ Chicken and Rice: 5 Reasons to Love This One-Pan Meal

Author: [email protected]
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Pan Cooking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A simple and delicious one-pan meal featuring BBQ chicken and rice.

Ingredients

Scale

4 chicken thighs
1 cup rice
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (optional)

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Brown chicken thighs in the pan for about 5 minutes on each side.
Add rice, chicken broth, and honey BBQ sauce to the pan.
Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
Cover and cook for 20 minutes or until rice is tender.
Add mixed vegetables if using, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Adjust the amount of BBQ sauce based on your taste.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking.
This dish can be made with chicken breasts instead of thighs.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 15g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: BBQ Chicken and Rice, One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice

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