Dinner

Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe

Name: Easy One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts); 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth (or water); 1/3 cup honey; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand); 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Fresh parsley, chopped

ByLily Cross November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

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Introduction

This easy one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice is a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken thighs with flavorful rice in a sweet and tangy sauce. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a satisfying meal that requires minimal cleanup.

A black pan holds a dish with two layers: the bottom layer is golden brown cooked rice with a slightly oily and soft texture, evenly spread across the pan, while the top layer consists of small, glossy, dark orange glazed chicken pieces with charred black spots, arranged close together in the center of the rice. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
1/3 cup honey
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, mix together the honey and barbecue sauce until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1 minute, coating it in the oil and aromatics.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and stir to combine. Return the chicken to the pan, placing it on top of the rice. Pour the honey BBQ sauce evenly over the chicken and rice.
Step 6: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
Step 7: Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat, but thighs will keep the dish juicier and more flavorful.
Add a pinch of chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Swap parsley for cilantro or green onions as a garnish for a different fresh note.
For extra veggies, stir in diced bell peppers or frozen peas with the onions and garlic.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep the rice moist.

How to Serve

A black pan filled with two layers: the bottom layer is light brown fried rice with a slightly oily texture, evenly spread across the pan; the top layer consists of glossy, dark brown glazed chicken pieces with a sticky shine and slight char marks, arranged in a rough mound in the center. The pan is placed on a white marbled texture surface. 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 white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid amount since brown rice takes longer to cook. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness before serving.

What if I don’t have barbecue sauce?

If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can mix ketchup with a bit of Worcestershire sauce, a touch of vinegar, and a pinch of brown sugar to create a quick substitute sauce that still delivers great flavor.