How to Make One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice (Easy & Flavorful Weeknight Dinner)
Looking for a delicious, one-pan dinner that packs bold flavor with minimal cleanup? This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice combines sweet, smoky, and savory elements into a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s loaded with protein, infused with honey BBQ sauce, and cooked with fluffy rice and colorful veggies—all in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers comforting flavor and nutrition in every bite. Plus, it’s simple enough for beginners and impressive enough for guests. Ready to transform dinner tonight? Let’s get cooking!
Overview of One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
This one-pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a well-balanced dish that brings together the bold flavors of barbecued chicken, the sweetness of honey, and the comforting warmth of rice in one skillet. It’s a time-saving, protein-packed dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Each component absorbs the sauce, giving you a rich and cohesive flavor throughout the dish. By incorporating vegetables like bell peppers and corn, you also add a dose of color and nutrition. With less than 10 minutes of prep and easy cleanup, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep in regular rotation.
Ingredients of One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this bold, one-pan meal:
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
For the Sauce:
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (use smoky or spicy style for deeper flavor)
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional for tang)
For the Rice and Veggies:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup canned or frozen corn
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional garnish)
How To Make One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice:
This dish is all about layering flavor while keeping things simple. You’ll start by seasoning and searing the chicken, then combine the sauce, rice, and vegetables—all in one pan. Let it simmer, absorb the flavors, and finish with a fresh garnish. Here’s how:
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Set aside. This will be the star of your dish, so choose a BBQ sauce with bold, smoky flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili flakes. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Veggies
In the same pan, add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion and red bell pepper for 2–3 minutes until slightly soft. Stir in corn and cook for another minute. This step builds flavor at the base.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir briefly to toast for about 1 minute. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and add chicken broth. Stir to combine everything.
Step 5: Cover and Cook
Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover the pan with a lid. Reduce heat to low and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Do not stir while cooking.
Step 6: Rest and Fluff
Turn off the heat and let the pan sit covered for 5 more minutes. This allows the rice to steam and finish cooking. Then gently fluff the mixture with a fork.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions and parsley or cilantro over the top before serving. Serve straight from the pan for a rustic family-style meal or portion into meal prep containers for the week.
Cook and Prep Times:
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Resting Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Serves 4):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 410 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 10g |
| Sodium | 680mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and can vary based on ingredients and portion size.
Serving of One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- As a Standalone Meal: Serve warm, directly from the pan, with a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon to brighten the BBQ sauce.
- Meal Prep Option: Divide into 4 containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Great for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
- Pair With: A side of coleslaw, a mixed greens salad, or roasted green beans for a balanced plate.
- For Extra Creaminess: Drizzle with a bit of Greek yogurt or ranch dressing for a creamy contrast.
- Kid-Friendly Version: Reduce the chili flakes and use a milder BBQ sauce. Let kids sprinkle their own cheese or toppings.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results:
- Don’t Skip the Rinse: Washing your rice removes excess starch and keeps it from becoming gummy.
- Let it Steam: Always let the rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking. It finishes the cooking process and fluffs beautifully.
- BBQ Sauce Matters: Choose a bold BBQ sauce—something smoky or with a bit of spice—to give your dish real depth.
- Use Leftover Chicken: You can substitute leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken—just reduce searing time and add after the rice simmers.
