Honey bbq chicken and rice
Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a simple and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, served over fluffy, warm rice.…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is a simple and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, served over fluffy, warm rice. The combination of sticky, flavorful chicken with the soft texture of rice makes it a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
I love making this dish because it’s so easy to prepare but still feels special. The honey in the BBQ sauce adds just the right amount of sweetness without being too heavy, and I usually like to cook the chicken until it’s nice and caramelized. One tip I’ve found helpful is to let the sauce thicken a bit on the stove before adding it to the chicken—it makes the flavors really pop!
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, and I’ve had so many fun dinners sharing this with friends and family. Plus, it’s great for leftovers, so you get a little extra joy the next day too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean option. You can swap in thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result. Just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Rice: White rice works great for this dish because it’s fluffy and neutral. Brown rice can be used for a healthier twist, but it takes longer to cook.
BBQ Sauce & Honey: The BBQ sauce brings tang and smokiness, while honey adds sweetness. If you want less sugar, use a low-sugar BBQ sauce or reduce honey a bit. Maple syrup is a nice substitute for honey too.
Spices: Smoked paprika and garlic powder help boost flavor without extra heat. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne if you like some spice.
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro and green onions brighten the dish with fresh flavor. Parsley is a good alternative if you’re not a cilantro fan.
How Do I Cook the Chicken So It’s Tender and Not Dry?
Cooking chicken just right is key to this dish. Here’s how I do it:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Season the chicken well before cooking to build flavor.
- Use medium-high heat and cook the chicken in a single layer so pieces brown evenly.
- Cook without moving too much at first to get a nice sear—about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Stir once the chicken is browned and continue cooking until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes total.
- Finish by adding the sauce and simmering until it thickens to coat the chicken well.
These steps help keep chicken juicy and flavorful in your honey BBQ chicken and rice dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium pot – perfect for cooking fluffy rice without sticking.
- Large skillet or frying pan – great for cooking chicken evenly and mixing in the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your sauce and spices just right.
- Whisk or fork – helps mix the honey and BBQ sauce smoothly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken, veggies, and herbs safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a quick seafood twist that cooks super fast.
- Add diced pineapple for a sweet, tropical touch that pairs well with BBQ sauce.
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers and onions to boost color and crunch.
- Try spicy BBQ sauce or add red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like it spicy.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Rice:
- 1 1/2 cups white rice
- 3 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper (optional)
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
- 2 green onions, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. Cooking the rice takes 15 minutes, and preparing and cooking the chicken with sauce takes around 10-15 minutes. Altogether, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice. In a medium pot, combine the rice and your choice of water or chicken broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and keep warm while you prepare the chicken.
2. Preparing and Cooking the Chicken:
Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through. If you’re using diced red bell pepper, add it to the skillet and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Making and Adding the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce and honey until smooth. Pour this sauce over the cooked chicken and bell peppers in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and become sticky.
4. Finishing Touches and Serving:
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro or parsley to add a fresh flavor. Spoon the cooked rice onto plates or bowls, then top with the honey BBQ chicken mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook—typically about 40-45 minutes—so plan accordingly. Use the same water-to-rice ratio and adjust cooking time until tender.
Can I Substitute Chicken Thighs for Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay juicier and add extra flavor. Cook time might be slightly longer, so make sure the thighs are cooked through before adding the sauce.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and keep the sauce nice and sticky.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the rice and chicken separately, then mix in the sauce when ready to serve. This helps keep everything fresh and makes reheating quicker and tastier.