This one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice is a quick and tasty meal! Juicy chicken cooked in a sweet BBQ sauce, combined with fluffy rice—isn’t that a win-win?
Cooking everything in one pan means less mess and more time to enjoy! Perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious with minimal effort. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is the go-to here. You can swap in thighs for more juiciness or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Rice: Long grain white rice works best, but you can use brown rice or jasmine rice too—just adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer.
Honey: If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, agave syrup or maple syrup are great alternatives. They also bring a nice flavor twist!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce. For a homemade option, mix ketchup, vinegar, and spices. If you’re avoiding sugar, a sugar-free BBQ sauce can work well.
Chicken Broth: Swap it with vegetable broth for a veggie option, or use water if broth isn’t available—just add a bit more seasoning to boost flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
To avoid dry chicken, keep an eye on cooking time. Chicken should be cooked through but still juicy. Follow these tips:
- Cut the chicken into even pieces so they cook evenly.
- Cook until no longer pink in the center, about 5-6 minutes. A meat thermometer should read 165°F (75°C).
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain moisture. Cover it for a few minutes off heat before serving!
With these ingredients and tips, your one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking journey!
Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 1 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25-30 minutes to cook. So, in about 35-40 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the cubed chicken. Season it with salt and pepper, then cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring often, until the chicken is lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, mix together the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and minced garlic in a small bowl. This sauce will add amazing flavor to your chicken!
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the cooked chicken. Give it a good stir to coat every piece of chicken evenly in that sticky goodness.
4. Add Rice and Broth:
Spread the uncooked rice evenly around the chicken in the pan. Then, gently pour the chicken broth over everything. This will help the rice cook perfectly.
5. Simmer it All Together:
Bring the mixture to a boil on high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
6. Final Touches:
Once done, remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld together! Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork, gently stirring it with the chicken, and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice is ready! Serve it warm and enjoy this delightful, easy meal that’s packed with flavor and made in just one pan!
FAQ for Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes about 40-45 minutes to cook, so adjust accordingly and check for doneness.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, agave syrup or maple syrup can work well. They provide a similar sweetness with a slight flavor change, which can be a nice twist on the dish!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day ahead and reheat it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep the rice moist while reheating.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, making sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
