Can I use instant or parboiled rice?

While this recipe is tailored for long-grain rice, you can substitute with instant or parboiled rice. Just adjust the cooking time and reduce the liquid slightly, since these rice types absorb water differently and cook more quickly.

What’s the best way to make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with firm tofu or your favorite plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and proceed as written—just press and sear the tofu first for best texture.

Can I use bone-in chicken pieces?

Boneless cuts are best for quick, even cooking and easy mixing. Bone-in chicken will take longer to cook and may not blend as smoothly with the rice, but it can work if you adjust the timing and ensure everything is cooked through.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to use enough oil when searing, and keep the heat low during simmering. Stir the bottom once or twice before covering to lift any stuck-on rice grains. A heavy-bottomed skillet or nonstick pan can also help.

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Name: One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1 tbsp olive oil

Description

This easy One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a flavorful, family-friendly dinner made in just 30 minutes. Tender chicken and fragrant rice are cooked together in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce—all in one skillet for minimal cleanup, maximum taste, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Protein

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

Grains

1 cup long-grain rice

Liquids

2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce

Fats

1 tbsp olive oil

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Skillet: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken thighs or breasts to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken does not need to be cooked through at this stage.
Toast the Rice: Stir in the long-grain rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, making sure the rice is coated in the chicken juices and oil, which adds flavor and helps prevent sticking.
Add Liquids and Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce, then stir to combine all ingredients, ensuring the rice is submerged in liquid.
Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and cook on low heat for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for a few minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then serve hot for best flavor.

Notes

For extra flavor, use smoked BBQ sauce or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
You can add chopped vegetables (like bell peppers or corn) during the simmering step for more nutrition and flavor.
Resting after cooking helps the rice finish steaming and prevents it from becoming mushy.
This dish is perfect for meal prep and reheats well.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 410
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg