
Why make this recipe
One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick but satisfying. With just one pan to clean, it makes your meal prep easy, and the combination of flavors will please everyone at the table.
How to make One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients :
- 2 cups rice
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix honey and BBQ sauce together.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add rice and stir for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and the honey BBQ mixture.
- Nestle the chicken on top of the rice.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with green onions if desired.
How to serve One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Serve the dish warm right from the pan. It’s great as is but you can also add a side salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. If you topped with green onions, it adds a nice color and fresh flavor.
How to store One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little added water to keep it moist.
Tips to make One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- For best results, use bone-in chicken thighs; they stay juicier than breasts.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the rice while it cooks, like bell peppers or peas.
- Adjust the amount of honey and BBQ sauce based on your taste preference.
Variation
You can easily switch things up by using different proteins, such as pork or tofu. If you want a spicier kick, add a bit of hot sauce to the honey BBQ mixture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can sear the chicken first, then add it and the rest of the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Is it okay to use frozen chicken in this recipe?
It’s best to thaw the chicken first for even cooking. However, you can cook it from frozen; just make sure to extend the cooking time.

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups rice Use white or brown rice, adjusting liquids and cooking time if using brown.
- 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts Bone-in thighs preferred for juiciness.
- 1/2 cup honey Adjust amount to taste.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite BBQ sauce.
- 1 cup chicken broth Can use low-sodium broth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For searing chicken.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix honey and BBQ sauce together.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add rice and stir for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and the honey BBQ mixture.
- Nestle the chicken on top of the rice.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with green onions if desired.