Dinner

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi February 25, 2026February 25, 2026

Introduction

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is an easy and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Juicy chicken thighs simmer in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce alongside tender rice and mixed vegetables. With just one pan, dinner comes together quickly and cleanup is a breeze.

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with colorful fried rice and topped with grilled chicken pieces. The bottom layer is the fried rice, which has white grains mixed with small bits of orange carrot and green peas, giving it a lively look. On top, there are many chunks of grilled chicken, browned with a shiny glaze of dark sauce that adds a rich shine. The chicken pieces look tender and sit spread out evenly over the rice. The background is 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
½ cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup honey
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until browned.
Step 2: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce and honey. Pour this mixture over the chicken in the skillet.
Step 3: Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring gently to combine with the sauce.
Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender.
Step 5: During the last 5 minutes of cooking, scatter the mixed vegetables on top of the rice to steam through.
Step 6: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts for a leaner option, but adjust cooking time slightly to avoid drying out the meat.
Try adding a pinch of chili flakes to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
Swap mixed vegetables for your favorite fresh veggies like bell peppers or corn for added texture.
To make it gluten-free, ensure your BBQ sauce does not contain gluten ingredients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

A close-up image of cooked white rice mixed with small pieces of orange carrots and green peas, forming the bottom layer. On top, there are several small chunks of grilled chicken glazed in a shiny dark brown sauce, arranged evenly across the rice. The texture of the chicken looks soft and tender with a slightly caramelized surface. The food is presented on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but cooking time will increase. You may need to add more liquid and cook for about 40-45 minutes until tender.

Is it necessary to sear the chicken first?

Searing the chicken adds flavor and color, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. The dish will still be tasty but may have less depth in flavor.