One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice: Sweet, Smoky, and Seriously Satisfying
Tired of juggling multiple pots and pans just to get dinner on the table? Enter the One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice – your new favorite weeknight hero. This dish delivers bold flavor with tender chicken, fluffy rice, vibrant veggies, and a sticky-sweet honey BBQ glaze, all cooked together in one pan. It’s comfort food meets convenience, with zero compromise on taste.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just want a cozy, fuss-free dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. And the best part? Minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.
Ingredients (Serves 4):
1 lb chicken thighs or breasts, cubed
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
¾ cup BBQ sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
½ cup frozen corn (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish
How to Make One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sear for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Add onion, bell pepper, corn, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquid
Stir in the rinsed rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes. Add chicken broth and mix. Return the seared chicken to the skillet.
Step 4: Make the Honey BBQ Glaze
Mix BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl. Pour over the rice and chicken mixture and stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed. Stir halfway through.
Optional Step: Broil or Uncover
For a sticky glaze or crispy top, uncover for the last 5 minutes or broil for 2-3 minutes if using an oven-safe skillet.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Fluff the rice and top with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy the sweet, smoky flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One skillet means fewer dishes
Sweet and savory flavors everyone loves
Great for leftovers or meal prep
Totally customizable based on what you have on hand
Variations & Add-Ons
Use quinoa or brown rice (longer cooking time)
Try pork, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken
Add shredded cheese for richness
Mix in black beans for protein and fiber
Use chipotle BBQ sauce for extra smoky heat
Tips for Success
Rinse rice to avoid gumminess
Sear chicken for best texture
Cover tightly while simmering
Adjust seasoning based on your BBQ sauce’s sweetness or spice
Don’t rush—let the rice absorb all that flavor
FAQ: One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q: What BBQ sauce works best?
A: Use your favorite—sweet, smoky, or spicy all work!
Q: Can I use frozen veggies?
A: Definitely. Just toss them in with the fresh ones.
Q: What if the rice isn’t done?
A: Add a splash of broth or water, cover, and cook a bit longer.
Q: Can it be gluten-free?
A: Yes, just use gluten-free BBQ sauce and broth.
Q: Can I make it in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?
A: You can adapt it, but stovetop gives the best caramelized glaze.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful meal with almost no cleanup, this Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice will be your go-to. It’s family-friendly, packed with comfort, and loaded with crave-worthy flavor.
Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be amazing.