If you’re looking for a delicious and easy dinner option that your whole family will rave about, you’ve come to the right place! This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is one of my all-time favorite recipes. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something scrumptious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant veggies all in one dish—what’s not to love?
This recipe is not just a lifesaver on hectic evenings; it’s also fantastic for family gatherings or potlucks. Everyone will appreciate the sweet and tangy flavors of honey BBQ sauce mingling with the wholesome ingredients. Trust me, this is a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in one dish, making cleanup a breeze!
- Family-Friendly Flavors: The sweet and savory combination appeals to both kids and adults alike.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and lean protein, it’s a meal you can feel good about serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance for an effortless weeknight dinner or an easy meal prep option.
- Customizable Recipe: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is quick and easy. You’ll find that everything needed is simple and wholesome—perfect for creating a comforting meal at home.
For the Chicken
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Rice and Veggies
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Honey BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- (Optional) 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, sliced
- Fresh lime juice
Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:
- Swap the protein: Use chicken breasts or even cubed tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add different vegetables: Toss in some zucchini, carrots, or broccoli to mix things up.
- Change up the rice: Try using brown rice or quinoa for added nutrients.
- Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat!
How to Make One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken & Veggies
Start by patting dry and cutting your chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss them with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mix adds so much flavor! While that’s marinating, rinse your rice under cold water until clear; this step helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice. Now chop your onion and bell peppers into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Mince the garlic too—it’s going to add wonderful aroma!
Step 2: Make Honey BBQ Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together your BBQ sauce with honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and optional red pepper flakes. This sauce brings sweet sticky goodness to our dish that pairs perfectly with chicken. Mixing it well ensures every bit of flavor is blended before we pour it over our chicken later!
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large oven-safe baking dish (9×13 inches works great!). Spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom of the dish. Then scatter your chopped onion and bell peppers over the rice along with minced garlic. Carefully pour in low-sodium chicken broth over everything without stirring—this helps keep layers intact while cooking.
Step 4: Add Chicken & Sauce
Now it’s time to arrange your seasoned chicken pieces on top of those colorful veggies! Pour that delicious honey BBQ sauce generously over everything so each piece gets coated—this will create a rich flavor as it bakes.
Step 5: Initial Bake (Covered)
Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 30 minutes. This initial bake allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully while keeping moisture locked in.
Step 6: Final Bake (Uncovered)
After 30 minutes have passed, carefully remove the foil (watch out for steam!). Stir in frozen corn kernels and peas gently—this adds color and nutrition! Return it back to bake uncovered for another 20-25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked (reaching an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and all liquid has been absorbed by that lovely rice.
Step 7: Rest, Fluff & Serve
Once cooked through, take out your baking dish from the oven and let it rest uncovered for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows flavors to settle nicely! Use a fork to fluff up that rice before serving hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if you fancy some herbs on top! A squeeze of fresh lime juice can add an extra zing too!
And there you have it—a delightful One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice that’s sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips for Making One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
You’re going to love how easy and delicious this recipe is, but a few extra tips can elevate your dish even further!
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Prep Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and marinating the chicken ahead of time can reduce stress on busy weeknights. It allows the flavors to meld and saves you valuable time when it’s time to cook.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for a high-quality BBQ sauce that you enjoy. The flavor of the sauce will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish, so choose one that you love.
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Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting the dish rest after baking ensures that the flavors settle and the rice absorbs any remaining moisture. This step helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture.
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Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or carrots. This not only adds nutrition but also personalizes the dish to your taste preferences.
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Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Adjusting spice levels can cater to your family’s preferences and make the dish uniquely yours.
How to Serve One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this dish!
Garnishes
- Fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Green onions: Sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and a lovely crunch.
- Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added zesty finish that brightens up each bite.
Side Dishes
- Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious green element that complements the richness of the chicken and rice.
- Garden salad: A refreshing garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers provides a crisp contrast to the warm dish.
- Roasted sweet potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes offer a sweet and savory balance that pairs beautifully with honey BBQ flavors.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinaigrette serves as a refreshing side that cuts through the richness of the main dish.
With these tips and serving suggestions, your One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice will be even more delightful! Enjoy every bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is perfect for meal prep! Preparing this dish ahead of time not only saves you valuable time during the week, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Cool the dish completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Label containers with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
- Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep it moist.
FAQs
If you have any questions about this recipe, you’ve come to the right place!
Can I use different proteins in the One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs provide great flavor and tenderness, you can substitute them with boneless skinless chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How can I adjust the spice level of One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice?
To adjust the spice level, simply add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side!
What type of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?
A sweet and tangy BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with this dish. You can choose a store-bought option or make your own using ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar for a homemade touch.
Can I make One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice with brown rice?
Yes! If you prefer to use brown rice, just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid than white rice—about 1 cup more broth and an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time should do!
Final Thoughts
This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice truly stands out as a wholesome meal that combines convenience with delightful flavors. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation method, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite among busy families. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to try this delicious dish; your kitchen will smell amazing!
Dinner
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