It is 6pm on a busy Tuesday. You are tired from a long day. You need a meal that is fast and filling. This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is your new secret weapon. It is sweet, savory, and ready in forty minutes.
There is nothing better than a meal that feels like a treat. This dish delivers that feeling every single time. You get high protein without the boring taste. It is fresh, warm, and so satisfying for the whole family.
Why You Will Love This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
This recipe is a total lifesaver for busy families. It is packed with protein to keep you full. Your kids will love the sweet, golden glaze. It is perfect for busy weeknights when time is short.
You only need a few simple pantry staples. The honey and BBQ sauce create a magic combo. It tastes like a restaurant meal at home. This recipe is budget-friendly and very easy to scale up.
Simple Cooking Method
This recipe comes together in just forty minutes. You cook the rice while the chicken sears. It is a simple, two-pot process. Even beginners can master this meal with ease. You will feel like a pro in the kitchen.
Ingredients You Will Need
Most of these items are likely in your pantry right now. Using fresh chicken and low-sodium broth makes a big difference.
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced
Step-by-Step Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth.
- Bring the liquid to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and cover the pan.
- Simmer for 15 to 18 minutes.
- Wait until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Season the chicken cubes with garlic and onion powder.
- Add the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet.
- Use medium-high heat for the best sear.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Whisk the BBQ sauce and honey in a bowl.
- Reduce the skillet heat to low.
- Pour the honey BBQ mixture over the chicken.
- Stir well to coat every piece.
- Simmer for three minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
- Divide the rice into four bowls or containers.
- Top with the glazed chicken and green onions.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this dish warm for a cozy night in. It looks beautiful in a shallow white bowl. You can add a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas. This adds a nice crunch and extra nutrients.
For a complete meal, add a fresh side salad. Pack the leftovers into glass containers for work. It makes weekday lunches feel special and easy. Your coworkers will definitely ask for the recipe.
Storage and Reheating
This meal stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Keep it in airtight containers for four days. The sauce keeps the chicken very tender. It is a top-tier choice for meal prep fans.
To reheat, use the microwave for two minutes. You can also warm it in a skillet. Add a splash of water to keep it moist. This ensures the rice stays fluffy and perfectly soft.
Tips for Best Results
- Do not crowd the chicken in the skillet.
- Cook in two batches if your pan is small.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect chicken.
- Rinse your rice before cooking to remove starch.
- Let the chicken rest for two minutes before serving.
- Use low-sodium broth to control the salt.
- Garnish with extra green onions for a fresh bite.
- Choose a smoky BBQ sauce for more depth.
Easy Flavor Ideas
- Add a teaspoon of Sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Swap white rice for quinoa for extra fiber.
- Stir in canned pineapple for a tropical twist.
- Use chicken thighs for an even juicier texture.
- Add bell peppers to the skillet for more color.
Common Questions
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice. You will need more liquid and more time. Check the package for the exact cooking ratios. It adds a lovely nutty flavor to the dish.
Is this recipe freezer friendly?
This meal freezes very well for later. Place individual portions in freezer-safe bags or bins. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. It is great for long-term meal planning.
What BBQ sauce is best?
Any brand you love will work perfectly here. A honey-based or hickory-smoked sauce is best. It complements the honey you add later. This creates a deep and complex flavor profile.
I hope this simple meal brings peace to your kitchen. It is so rewarding to have dinner sorted. Enjoy every bite of this sweet and savory dish.
— Katie Wood
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 cups long -grain white rice
- 4 cups low -sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup hone y
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 green onions , sliced for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the white rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- While rice cooks, season the chicken cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until browned. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (approx. 8-10 minutes).
- In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey.
- Reduce the skillet heat to low. Pour the honey BBQ mixture over the chicken and stir to coat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the chicken.
- Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide into 4 containers or plates.
- Top each portion of rice with the glazed chicken and garnish with sliced green onions.
