One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

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When life gets busy but your taste buds crave something bold, this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice recipe comes to the rescue. It’s a full, satisfying meal that delivers sticky-sweet, smoky chicken bites on a bed of flavorful rice — all cooked in just one skillet for easy cleanup. Perfect for weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing your dinner crowd with minimal effort.

Each bite bursts with the tangy richness of BBQ sauce paired with the mellow sweetness of honey, balanced beautifully by tender chicken and hearty rice. Plus, the caramelized edges of the chicken from the pan sear give it that irresistible texture. No side dish stress. No flavor sacrificed.

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

This recipe checks all the boxes: quick to make, family-friendly, easy cleanup, and flavor-packed. It’s a win for picky eaters and foodies alike. Whether you’re serving it for a weekday dinner or a casual get-together, it feels comforting and special. Bonus? It’s a balanced dish of protein, carbs, and satisfying flavor.

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What Kind of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?

For the best taste, go with your favorite brand of smoky BBQ sauce — something with a deep molasses base and a touch of tanginess. If you like heat, try a spicy BBQ blend. Want to keep it kid-friendly? A classic honey BBQ sauce does the trick. Just make sure it’s thick enough to cling to the chicken and glaze beautifully.

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Ingredients for the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Each ingredient brings flavor and function to this dish, turning basic staples into a crave-worthy meal:

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts – The star of the dish. Cut into chunks for faster cooking and max sauce coverage.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken and adds richness.
• Garlic powder & onion powder – Boost the savory foundation.
• Salt & black pepper – Simple seasoning to enhance everything else.
• BBQ sauce – Use a bold, thick, smoky BBQ sauce for the glaze.
• Honey – Balances the BBQ with sweet stickiness.
• Chicken broth – Infuses the rice with savory depth.
• Long grain white rice – Cooks right in the pan, soaking up the sauce.
• Fresh parsley or green onions – Optional garnish for color and freshness.

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How To Make the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Start the Rice

In the same pan, pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Glaze the Chicken

While rice cooks, mix BBQ sauce and honey in a small bowl. Add seared chicken back into the skillet on top of the rice. Spoon the BBQ honey mixture generously over the chicken.

Step 4: Let It All Simmer

Cover again and cook another 10 minutes, until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top. Serve hot directly from the pan!

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

This recipe yields 4 generous portions, making it perfect for a small family or meal prep for the week. Serve it hot straight from the pan with a big spoon, or scoop into containers for ready-to-go lunches.

To store, let it cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave with a splash of water to keep the rice fluffy.

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

1. Creamy Coleslaw

Crunchy and tangy, it pairs perfectly with the sticky-sweet chicken.

2. Steamed Broccoli

Bright and green for color contrast and a healthy bite.

3. Buttery Cornbread

A soft, warm slice makes a fantastic addition to the plate.

4. Pickled Jalapeños

Add a spicy kick that cuts the sweetness.

5. Simple Garden Salad

A light side of greens with a lemon vinaigrette balances the meal.

6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Earthy and caramelized, they pair beautifully with BBQ flavors.

7. Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic

Adds crunch and a savory edge.

8. Mac & Cheese

Because why not go full comfort mode?

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Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice, here are a few other must-try dishes:

• Try this cozy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for something ultra-indulgent.
• These Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells offer a delicious vegetarian twist.
• For another one-pan favorite, check out Creamy Beef and Shells.
• Or keep it ultra comforting with Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy with the BBQ sauce or keep it classic? Did you add extra veggies or stick to simple?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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