One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Recipe
Introduction
This one-pan honey BBQ chicken and rice dish is a flavorful, comforting meal that comes together quickly. Tender chicken thighs simmer with fragrant rice and mixed vegetables in a sweet and tangy sauce, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add the rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to enhance its flavor.
- Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth and honey BBQ sauce. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
- Step 4: Reduce heat to low. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the frozen mixed vegetables on top of the chicken and rice. Cover with a lid and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
- Step 5: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer a leaner option—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Swap frozen mixed vegetables with fresh ones or any veggies you have on hand.
- Toast the rice longer for a nuttier taste, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use white rice substitutes like brown rice or quinoa?
Brown rice or quinoa can be used, but cooking times and liquid amounts will differ. Adjust accordingly and check for doneness as you cook.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
While you can freeze the cooked dish, the texture of the rice and vegetables may change after thawing. For best results, freeze separately if possible and reheat gently.
Print
One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with perfectly cooked rice and mixed vegetables in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. This easy, one-skillet recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, delivering a balanced and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Vegetables and Garnish
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet and Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs evenly with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5 to 7 minutes on each side until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Toast the Rice: Using the same skillet, add 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Toast the rice by stirring frequently for 1 to 2 minutes. This step enhances the rice’s flavor and prevents it from becoming mushy.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in 1 1/2 cups chicken broth and 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Stir everything well to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Chicken, Rice, and Vegetables: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and return the cooked chicken thighs to the skillet. Layer 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) on top of the chicken and rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and keep it covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the rice to fully cook through. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the best flavor and tenderness.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes when cooking the rice.
- You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables with fresh vegetables if preferred; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish can be doubled easily to serve a larger group by using a bigger skillet or pan.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: One-Pan,Honey BBQ Chicken,Rice,Easy Dinner,One-Skillet Meal,Chicken Thighs,Comfort Food,Quick Recipe,Weeknight Dinner

