Honey BBQ chicken and rice
Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is such a tasty and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and tangy barbecue sauce with the comforting fluffiness…
By Emily
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Reading time: 5 min
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Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice is such a tasty and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken coated in a sticky, sweet, and tangy barbecue sauce with the comforting fluffiness of rice. The honey adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the bold BBQ flavors, making every bite a delight.
I really love making this recipe on busy weeknights because it’s simple but feels special. The sauce is a perfect mix of sweet and smoky, and it sticks to the chicken beautifully, giving it that irresistible glaze. I usually like to cook the chicken until it’s golden and caramelized on the outside but juicy inside—that’s the best part!
My favorite way to serve this meal is with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to add some crunch and color to the plate. It makes for a well-rounded dinner that’s both quick and comforting. Whenever I make Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice, it feels like a little celebration at home, and everyone always asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless thighs stay juicy longer, but breasts work well if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a useful shortcut.
Barbecue Sauce: A good BBQ sauce sets the tone here. Use your favorite brand or homemade. For a twist, try spicy or smoky versions.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps create that sticky glaze. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good alternatives if you want a different flavor.
Rice: I like long-grain white rice for fluffiness. Brown rice or jasmine rice can be swapped in but adjust cooking times accordingly.
How Do You Get Perfectly Sticky, Caramelized Chicken with Honey BBQ Sauce?
Sticky, caramelized chicken comes from the right cooking temperature and timing. Here’s what works best:
- Sear chicken in medium-high heat to brown and lock in juices.
- Lower heat before adding sauce so it thickens without burning.
- Spoon sauce over chicken while cooking to build layers of glaze.
- Cook until internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
- Let chicken rest a few minutes to keep it tender before slicing.
Following these steps ensures your chicken is juicy inside with a beautifully sticky BBQ coating every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for searing chicken and simmering the sauce without crowding the pan.
- Medium saucepan – helps cook the rice evenly without sticking or burning.
- Mixing bowl – use it to combine your BBQ sauce and honey smoothly before adding to the chicken.
- Spatula or tongs – handy for flipping chicken and stirring sauce gently.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your sauce mix and seasoning just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken thighs for shrimp for a lighter, quicker-cooking alternative that still works well with BBQ sauce.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or onions for extra color and crunch alongside the chicken.
- Mix in cooked black beans or corn into the rice for a heartier meal with more texture.
- Try topping with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy twist.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Sauce:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Rice and Garnish:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to cook. Overall, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to serving, making it a great choice for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking your rice according to the package directions. For extra flavor, you can sauté a little minced garlic in a bit of oil before adding the rice and water. Once cooked, fluff it up and keep warm.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the rice is cooking, season the chicken pieces on both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if you like. This will boost the flavor nicely.
3. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, honey, minced garlic, and soy sauce until everything is combined well. This will be the sweet and tangy glaze for your chicken.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until it’s golden brown on one side (about 5 minutes). Flip the chicken over and pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the top. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for another 6-8 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken occasionally. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized.
5. Serve:
Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes. Plate the fluffy rice and lay the honey BBQ chicken on top. Garnish with fresh green onions and chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
6. Enjoy:
Serve your Honey BBQ Chicken and Rice warm. This meal is perfect for a satisfying and easy dinner that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking. Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
You can! Brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time and liquid amount according to the package instructions. Cooking it separately before adding the chicken ensures even results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chicken and rice separately, then store them in the fridge. Reheat both parts and toss the chicken in the BBQ sauce before serving for fresh flavor and texture.
