Why You’ll Love One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Recipe

This one-pan meal is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. With a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies, it offers a complete dinner in under 40 minutes. The blend of smoky BBQ sauce and honey creates a rich, bold flavor that the whole family will love. Plus, using just one pan means fewer dishes and more time to relax after dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup honey
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1 cup frozen peas or corn
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned (they don’t need to be cooked through yet).
Stir in the rice and let it toast for 1–2 minutes with the chicken.
In a small bowl, whisk together chicken broth, honey, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne (if using). Pour the mixture into the skillet.
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in the peas or corn and cook uncovered for another 3–4 minutes.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

Variations

Spice it up: Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for more heat.
Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking.
Different protein: Swap the chicken for turkey or use plant-based meat alternatives.
Rice swap: Use brown rice (increase cooking time and liquid) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Veggie boost: Add bell peppers, black beans, or diced tomatoes to mix up the texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist, or warm in a skillet over medium heat until hot throughout.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is no longer pink in the center.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional broth—about 1/2 cup more and an extra 15–20 minutes of simmering.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce and checking that your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

What’s the best type of BBQ sauce to use?

Use your favorite BBQ sauce—whether sweet, smoky, spicy, or tangy. Hickory or mesquite flavors work especially well with the honey.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the chicken and mix the sauce ingredients ahead of time to save a few minutes during cooking.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Substitute the chicken with chickpeas, tofu, or a meat alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I add cheese to this dish?

Absolutely. Stir in some shredded cheese just before serving or sprinkle on top after plating.

Will this work in a slow cooker?

This recipe is best suited for stovetop cooking due to the rice, but you could adapt it by cooking the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker and preparing the rice separately.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to use a large enough pan or pot to accommodate the extra volume, and extend cooking time slightly if needed.

What can I serve with this dish?

It’s a full meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm dinner rolls.

Conclusion

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is a delicious, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for hectic nights when you want something hearty, flavorful, and easy to clean up. With its bold sweet-and-smoky flavor and flexible ingredient options, it’s sure to become a staple in your weeknight rotation.