This Easy Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe is a winner! Juicy chicken is coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, then served over fluffy rice. Yum!
This dish is perfect for busy nights since it comes together in a snap. I love how the sweet sauce balances with the rice—makes dinner feel like a treat! 🍗🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can use thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or make your own for a personal touch. If you’re trying to avoid sugar, look for a sugar-free BBQ sauce. You can also try salsa for a different flavor twist.
Honey: Honey adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re vegan, use agave syrup or maple syrup as a great substitute to maintain that sweetness.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best for fluffiness. You could also use brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time as brown rice usually takes longer to cook.
How Do I Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Getting juicy chicken is key for this dish! Follow these steps to ensure your chicken stays tender:
- Start with room-temperature chicken for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed for that nice golden sear.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps retain the juices.
By keeping the heat at medium and cooking for the right amount of time, your chicken will be flavorful and juicy! Enjoy your meal!
Easy Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped green onions or parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30 minutes to cook, making it a total of around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and delicious meal that’s great for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce and honey until well combined. This will add a sweet touch to the chicken. Set the sauce aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will give your chicken tasty flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. To check if they’re done, you can cut into one—there should be no pink inside!
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour half of the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Lower the heat to low and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken a little and coat the chicken nicely. When it looks shiny and glaze-like, it’s perfect!
5. Cook the Rice:
While the chicken is simmering, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
6. Fluff and Serve:
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Serve the rice on plates and top it with the honey BBQ chicken. Drizzle some of the remaining sauce over the top for added flavor!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley if you like, then dig in! Enjoy your delicious home-cooked meal!
FAQ for Easy Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking! You can thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or quickly submerge it in cold water (in a sealed bag) until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Honey?
If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, maple syrup or agave syrup works great! They will maintain that sweet flavor while keeping it vegan-friendly if that’s your goal.
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the rice has become dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Cook the rice fresh before serving to keep it fluffy, then combine everything when you’re ready to eat!
