Can I use store-bought honey BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought honey BBQ sauce works great here and saves time. Choose one with a good balance of sweetness and smoke. If it’s very thick, you can thin it with a little chicken broth when mixing it into the rice. For a deeper flavor, try a low-sugar smoky variety or mix in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar for brightness.

How can I make this BBQ chicken rice recipe healthier?

You can lighten this up by using brown rice or cauliflower rice, reducing the honey to 2 tablespoons, and using a lower-sugar barbecue sauce. Swapping chicken breast for skinless thighs adds moisture without extra fat. Sneak in more nutrients by stirring in spinach, peas, or chopped zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking.

What vegetables pair well with honey BBQ chicken rice?

This dish welcomes all kinds of veggies. Bell peppers, corn, peas, or even green beans blend well with the sweet-savory sauce. For a roasted twist, try folding in leftover grilled vegetables. You can also top it with avocado or shredded carrots for crunch and color.

What is the best way to store leftover BBQ chicken rice?

Let the rice cool fully, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion it into freezer-safe containers and use within 2 months. Reheat with a splash of broth to keep it moist and microwave in short intervals, stirring often.

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Name: One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 1/2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 1/4 cup honey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

Description

A bold, smoky-sweet one-pan honey BBQ chicken rice meal that’s high in protein, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup long-grain white rice

1 1/2 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup barbecue sauce

1/4 cup honey

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the chicken cubes to the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.

3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. In the same pan, add the rice and toast it lightly for about 2 minutes.

5. Stir in the chicken broth, barbecue sauce, honey, garlic powder, and onion powder.

6. Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.

7. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low.

8. Cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

9. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

10. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

For a spicier flavor, add 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes. Use smoked BBQ sauce for depth. Try brown rice or add peas, corn, or bell peppers during the last 5 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 410
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 68mg