Dinner

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

ByHarper Ellington January 22, 2026January 22, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious and easy meal that combines juicy chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and perfectly seasoned rice. Cooked all in one pan, it’s a hassle-free recipe bursting with sweet and smoky flavors, ideal for quick and satisfying dinners.

The image shows a close-up of grilled chicken pieces placed over a bed of cooked rice. The chicken has a golden brown color with a slight char and glaze, and it looks juicy and tender. The rice beneath is light brown, cooked perfectly with some visible grains, and has a soft texture. Small green garnish bits are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh look. The dish is on a white plate, set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Chopped green onions or parsley (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
Step 3: Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
Step 4: After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice. Cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
Step 5: Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Use long-grain rice for the best texture to avoid mushiness.
Adjust the honey amount to change the sweetness level according to your taste.
For extra smokiness, try using mesquite or hickory BBQ sauce.
Swap the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a white plate filled with two main layers: at the bottom, a bed of light brown cooked rice with visible grains, topped with a layer of glazed grilled chicken pieces, which are golden brown with some darker caramelized edges. The chicken pieces are coated with a shiny sauce, and small green herb leaves are scattered on top for garnish. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Long-grain rice is recommended for a fluffy texture, but you can use other types like basmati. Avoid short-grain rice as it may become too sticky for this recipe.

What if I don’t have BBQ sauce on hand?

You can substitute BBQ sauce with a mix of ketchup, a little vinegar, and spices to mimic the smoky-sweet flavor, or use your favorite store-bought sauce.

Harper Ellington