One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Posted on February 16, 2026

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken served over flavorful rice

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, flavorful rice, and vibrant vegetables all in one easy-to-make meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and flavorful without a lot of fuss.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice:

Flavor Explosion: The combination of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce creates a delightful flavor profile that will have everyone asking for seconds.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimize cleanup time with this simple one-pan meal, making dinner prep a breeze.
Speedy Cooking: This dish comes together in just over 30 minutes, perfect for those evenings when time is short.
Family-Friendly: With a mix of chicken, rice, and colorful veggies, this dish is a hit with both kids and adults.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish keeps well for leftovers, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients Needed

Protein

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Grains

1 cup long-grain rice

Liquid

2 cups chicken broth

Sauce

½ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup honey

Vegetables

1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Spices

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings

Chopped green onions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the chicken on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the seasoned chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and honey; pour over the chicken. Let the sauce heat and coat the thighs.
Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet; stir to combine, scraping any browned bits into the liquid.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for about 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the mixed vegetables on top to steam.
Let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork and serving.

Serving Suggestions for One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Serve this delightful dish with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors. For a refreshing contrast, consider a wedge of lime or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top!

Tips for Success with One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Use a Digital Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap in any vegetables your family enjoys, such as bell peppers or broccoli.
Cook Rice Thoroughly: If you find that the rice isn’t cooked through after 20 minutes, allow it to simmer a little longer with the lid on.
Searing for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step; it adds a caramelized flavor that enhances the dish.
Adjust Sauce to Taste: If you like it sweeter, add a touch more honey. For tang, a splash of apple cider vinegar can enhance the BBQ flavor.

Variation

For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce and honey mixture. Alternatively, switch up the protein and use shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice requires longer to cook.

What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
You can create a quick homemade BBQ-style sauce using ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices if you’re out of BBQ sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on low power in the microwave or on the stovetop.