Name: Effortlessly Juicy: Savory One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Can substitute with chicken thighs.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Can use vegetable or canola oil.); 1 cup Long Grain White Rice (Avoid instant rice.); 2 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth makes a great substitute.); 1 cup BBQ Sauce (Choose a smoky or spicy version.); 1/4 cup Honey (Maple syrup can be used as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh garlic can be used.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Fresh onions can be sautéed for added flavor.); 1 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley or Green Onions (Adds fresh touch and vibrant color.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

After a long day, the last thing I want is to deal with piles of dishes and complicated recipes. That’s why I fell in love with this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice. Imagine the rich, sticky aroma of honey BBQ sauce wafting through your kitchen as tender chicken simmers with fluffy rice, absorbing all those amazing flavors. It’s a comforting meal that comes together effortlessly, leaving you with just one pan to clean up – a dream for any busy weeknight!

Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or just tired of the same old dinner routine, this dish is highly customizable. You can easily swap in veggies or change up the sauces to keep things exciting. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll feel like you’re indulging in a weekend BBQ— all while keeping weekday dinners simple and satisfying. Let’s dive in and make a meal that brings joy back to your table!

Why You’ll Love This Savory Recipe

Effortless simplicity: With just one pan and simple ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings.

Ample flavor: The sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce coats the tender chicken and fluffy rice, creating an irresistible combination that pleases the palate.

Customizable goodness: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh to suit your dietary preferences.

Family-friendly appeal: This hearty recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite, delighting even the pickiest eaters in your household.

For an equally delightful side dish, consider serving it with a light salad or check out my Yakisoba Savory Street for a complete meal!

Savory One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – This is the main protein component; you can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for searing the chicken; feel free to use vegetable or canola oil if preferred.

For the Rice
• Long Grain White Rice – Absorbs flavors beautifully; avoid instant rice for the best texture in your savory one-pan honey BBQ chicken & rice.
• Chicken Broth – Adds essential moisture and flavor; vegetable broth makes a great vegetarian substitute.

For the Sauce
• BBQ Sauce – Offers that signature sweet-tang; choose a smoky or spicy version for a flavor kick.
• Honey – Enhances sweetness and promotes caramelization; maple syrup can be swapped for a unique taste.
• Garlic Powder – Brings depth to the dish; fresh garlic can be used for a more robust flavor.
• Onion Powder – Complements the garlic; fresh onions can be sautéed alongside the chicken for added taste.

For Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential basic seasonings; adjust to your taste for the best results.

For Garnish
• Chopped Parsley or Green Onions – These add a fresh touch and vibrant color to your comforting dish.

Feel free to get creative with additional veggies or explore different BBQ sauce flavors, and watch this recipe become a new weeknight favorite!

How to Make One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your chicken and rice cook perfectly while developing delicious flavors.
Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This creates a tasty base for your savory one-pan honey BBQ chicken & rice.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 4–5 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
Mix BBQ sauce and honey in a bowl, then pour half of this mixture over the chicken, stirring to coat. Let it caramelize for 1–2 minutes, enhancing the dish’s sweetness and bringing it all together beautifully.
Add the uncooked long-grain white rice to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Gently mix everything together and bring it to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cover the skillet with a lid and bake it in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. You’ll know it’s ready when you see the rice fluffy and fully cooked.
Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce mixture over the top once removed from the oven to add more flavor and a glossy finish.
Let it rest uncovered for about 5 minutes. This allows flavors to deepen and makes the dish easier to serve. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving to add freshness.

Optional: For a pop of color, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top before serving.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Savory One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own by exploring these delightful twists!

Vegetarian: Swap chicken for cubed tofu or tempeh for a heartwarming plant-based alternative. You’ll still capture that savory flavor everyone loves.
Spicy Kick: Add chipotle sauce or diced jalapeños to your BBQ sauce for a fiery infusion. Spicy vibes elevate the dish to a whole new level!
Colorful Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, corn, or peas during cooking to boost nutrition. Not only do they add color, but they also provide a sweet crunch that complements the flavors perfectly.
Herb Flavors: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil before baking for an aromatic flair. You’ll be amazed at how a little greenery can transform the taste!
Honey Alternatives: Swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar for a unique flavor profile. Each substitute brings its own sweetness that enhances the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Noodle Fusion: Substitute rice with cooked egg noodles or whole wheat pasta for a comforting twist on this dish. It’ll create a deliciously unexpected texture that your family will adore.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Incorporate smoked paprika into your seasoning for an extra layer of depth. The smokiness will remind you of that irresistible barbecue taste!
Coconut Variation: Use coconut milk instead of chicken broth for a creamy, tropical twist. This will introduce a delightful richness that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ sauce.

Expert Tips for Savory One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Perfect Rice Texture: Let the dish rest after baking to ensure fluffy rice and better flavor absorption.
Avoid Quick Rice: Stick to long grain rice; quick-cooking varieties won’t absorb the flavors as well in this savory one-pan honey BBQ chicken & rice.
Reheat Reminders: When reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist and delicious.
Skillet Size Matters: Choose a large, oven-safe skillet to ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding of the chicken.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to alter the BBQ sauce to suit your taste—try adding chipotle for a spicy kick!

What to Serve with One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice?

Elevate your dinner experience with these delightful side dishes that complement the sweet and smoky flavors of this comforting meal.

Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens adds crunch and a light contrast to the hearty chicken and rice.
Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of roasted broccoli pairs beautifully, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner.
Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn brings a pop of sweetness that mirrors the honey BBQ sauce, rounding out the meal perfectly.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks create a satisfying way to soak up the flavorful juices from the chicken.

For dessert, consider Apple Crisp with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, providing a warm, sweet finish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy these pairings to create a well-rounded dining experience!

How to Store and Freeze Savory One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture.

Freezer: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Reheating: For the best results, add a bit of broth when reheating to maintain the juicy texture of the chicken and rice in your savory one-pan honey BBQ chicken & rice.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Savory One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice ahead of time is a fantastic way to save on busy weeknights! You can season and cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, mix the BBQ sauce and honey in advance to enhance the flavors even more. Just before cooking, add the uncooked rice and broth to the skillet, then follow the baking instructions when you’re ready to serve. This prep ensures everything is tender and delicious while allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. Simply drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce on top before enjoying your family’s favorite dish!

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts as the main protein. However, you can also substitute them with chicken thighs, which tend to be juicier and flavorful!

How should I store leftovers from this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice?
Store leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist and the chicken tender.

Can I freeze One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice?
Absolutely! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What do I do if my rice isn’t cooked through after baking?
No worries! If your rice isn’t fully cooked after baking, return the skillet to the oven and add a little more chicken broth. Cover it and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the rice is tender. Make sure to check if the liquid is absorbed!

Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! If you need a vegetarian option, you can swap chicken for tofu or tempeh. Additionally, ensure that the BBQ sauce and broth you choose are free from allergens if you’re accommodating food allergies. Always double check labels!

Can I incorporate vegetables into this dish?
Very much so! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies—like bell peppers or corn—during the cooking process. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you mix in the rice and broth for an extra nutritional boost!

Remember, your kitchen is your canvas—don’t hesitate to customize this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice to suit your tastes!