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This hearty one-skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice has been my weeknight dinner savior for years. The combination of tender chicken pieces and fluffy rice all coated in a sweet and smoky sauce creates a meal that's both satisfying and incredibly simple to prepare.
I first created this recipe when I needed to stretch my grocery budget near the end of the month. Now it's requested at least twice a month by my family who loves how the honey caramelizes slightly with the BBQ sauce during cooking.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces. Thighs are my preference for their juiciness and resistance to drying out
- Long grain white rice: Thoroughly rinsed to remove excess starch for fluffier results
- Low sodium chicken broth: Provides flavor while allowing you to control the salt level
- BBQ sauce: Preferably mesquite flavored for that authentic smoky depth
- Honey: Adds natural sweetness and helps create caramelization on the chicken
- Mixed vegetables: Frozen varieties work perfectly and save prep time
- Vegetable or olive oil: For searing the chicken and toasting the rice
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Provide aromatic flavor without the prep of fresh
- Smoked paprika: Essential for that authentic BBQ flavor profile without grilling
- Green onions: For garnish add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Season:
- Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces about 1 inch for even cooking. Combine all seasonings in a small bowl and sprinkle half over the chicken pieces. Rinse rice until water runs clear to remove excess starch which prevents gumminess.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium high heat until shimmering. Add seasoned chicken in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Let the pieces develop a golden crust for 3 to 4 minutes before flipping. The chicken should release easily from the pan when properly seared. Remove to a plate while still slightly undercooked inside.
- Toast the Rice:
- Add the remaining oil to the same pan along with the rinsed rice and remaining seasonings. Stir constantly for about 2 minutes watching carefully as the rice grains become slightly translucent at the edges. This toasting step creates nutty flavor notes that plain boiled rice lacks.
- Create the Sauce Base:
- Pour in chicken broth BBQ sauce and honey stirring immediately to scrape up all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These caramelized bits dissolve into the sauce creating depth of flavor throughout the entire dish. Bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the chicken to the pan nestling pieces into the rice mixture. Cover with a tight fitting lid and allow to simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. The sealed environment creates steam which cooks the rice evenly while preventing it from drying out.
- Add Vegetables:
- Quickly add the mixed vegetables spreading them evenly across the top. Replace the lid immediately to trap the steam and continue cooking for 5 more minutes. The vegetables will steam perfectly without becoming mushy.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. This resting period allows any remaining liquid to be absorbed and prevents the rice from becoming sticky when served. Gently fluff with a fork incorporating the vegetables before garnishing.
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The smoked paprika is truly the secret ingredient here. I once made this dish without it when I ran out and the flavor difference was remarkable. Now I keep two tins in my pantry just to ensure I never run out for this family favorite.
Make Ahead Options
This dish is perfect for meal prepping. After cooking allow it to cool completely then portion into individual containers. Refrigerate for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week. The flavor actually improves after a day as the seasonings meld together. To reheat sprinkle with a tablespoon of water cover loosely and microwave until steaming hot.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this hearty dish with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors. A crisp cucumber and tomato salad works particularly well. For a more substantial meal add a side of buttery cornbread or Texas toast to soak up the delicious sauce. The sweetness of cornbread complements the BBQ flavors beautifully.
Customization Ideas
This recipe welcomes many variations to suit your taste preferences. For a Southwestern twist add a can of black beans drained and rinsed along with the vegetables and sprinkle with fresh cilantro before serving. For a tropical version substitute pineapple juice for half the broth and add fresh pineapple chunks during the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can also make it spicier by adding diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chipotle powder.
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Storage Tips
Leftovers will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days stored in an airtight container. The rice may absorb more of the sauce during storage so when reheating add a splash of broth or water and cover to create steam. This prevents the dish from drying out. To reheat in the microwave cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts work just as well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and great flavor.
- → How can I add more spice to the dish?
Add chopped jalapeños when toasting the rice or mix in red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
- → What vegetables work best in this dish?
Peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers are great options. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables based on availability.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but increase the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups and extend the cooking time to 30-35 minutes before adding vegetables.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Portion cooled leftovers into airtight containers. They can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- → What type of BBQ sauce is best?
Mesquite-flavored BBQ sauce is recommended for a smoky flavor, but feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce.
- → Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish works well for meal prep. Store it in individual portions for quick reheating during the week.