Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Totally! Just be careful not to overcook them—they dry out faster than thighs. Slice them a bit thinner if you want them to cook evenly.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

Frozen mixed veggies are perfect for ease, but fresh bell peppers, corn, or zucchini also shine here. Use what you’ve got!

How do I store leftovers?

Pop them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! It reheats like a dream. Make it in the morning, and enjoy a stress-free dinner later.

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice: Quick & Delicious in 30 Min

Description

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a quick and easy one-pan dinner loaded with sweet, smoky flavor. Juicy chicken thighs are glazed in a rich honey BBQ sauce and served over perfectly seasoned rice. Family-friendly, budget-friendly, and weeknight-approved!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
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)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 clove garlic, minced
Chopped green onions, for garnish

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Instructions

Season chicken thighs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sear chicken thighs for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
In the same skillet, toast the uncooked rice for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Add chicken broth and half of the honey BBQ sauce mixture. Stir to combine.
Return chicken to the pan. Pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes.
Add mixed vegetables (if using), cover again, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Let rest for 5 minutes. Fluff rice, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Notes

You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs; just adjust cooking time to avoid drying out.
Add a splash of extra broth when reheating leftovers to keep rice moist.
Frozen veggies work great—no need to thaw before adding!
For extra heat, stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main course
Method: Stovetop, One-Pan
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 490 kcal
Sugar: 16 g
Sodium: 720 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg