One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that combines comfort, color, and crave-worthy flavor with minimal fuss and clean-up, One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is about to become your new weeknight hero. Picture tender bites of chicken coated in a sticky-sweet honey barbecue glaze, nestled in fluffy rice that’s brimming with savory juices and pops of tender veggies, all brought together in one comforting skillet. This easy, crowd-pleasing dish transforms a handful of accessible ingredients into something truly special, and best of all, you’ll only need one pan from start to finish.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how just a few well-chosen ingredients can work their magic in this recipe. Each one brings a unique pop of flavor, color, or that perfect bit of texture—so don’t skip on the details. Here’s what you’ll need to make One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice absolutely unforgettable:

• Chicken breast or thighs: Go for boneless, skinless cuts so they cook quickly and stay tender throughout.
• Honey barbecue sauce: This is where the magic happens—the sauce coats the chicken and turns everything irresistibly sticky and sweet.
• White rice: Choose long-grain, which cooks up light and fluffy, absorbing all the good flavors in the pan.
• Chicken broth: Using broth instead of water guarantees every bite of rice is dotted with savory goodness.
• Bell pepper: Diced red or yellow peppers add color and a burst of sweetness that complements the BBQ flavors.
• Onion: A bit of sautéed onion gives depth and an aromatic backbone to the dish.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic wakes up the whole skillet with a gentle kick.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken and vegetables—a pantry staple you can always count on.
• Salt and black pepper: Just a pinch or two to make every flavor sing.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For a final touch of green and a burst of freshness on top.

How to Make One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Chicken

Start by dicing your chicken into bite-sized pieces and seasoning them well with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then add the chicken in a single layer—let each piece get that golden sear before flipping. This isn’t just about color; those caramelized edges will deepen the flavor of your One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice right from the start.

Step 2: Add the Veggies

Once the chicken is golden (it doesn’t need to be cooked through yet), stir in the chopped bell pepper and onion. Sauté for a few minutes, just until the veggies start to soften and the onions turn translucent. Add the garlic last so it doesn’t burn, letting it sizzle for about 30 seconds to open up its aroma.

Step 3: Make It Saucy

Pour in the honey barbecue sauce, stirring well to coat every bit of chicken and veggies in that glossy, sticky goodness. Reserve a little sauce for drizzling at the end if you like extra flavor. This saucy step is what gives the One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice its signature taste and that irresistible glaze.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Pour the uncooked rice evenly over everything in the pan (don’t stir yet!). Now, add the chicken broth, gently pushing the rice down into the liquid with a spatula for an even cook. This trick helps the rice absorb all the barbecue and chicken flavor as it simmers.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for about 18–20 minutes. Resist the urge to peek too often—the steam is key! When the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed, fluff everything gently with a fork. Add a splash more barbecue sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before bringing the skillet straight to the table for that wow moment.

How to Serve One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while an extra drizzle of honey barbecue sauce over the top takes flavor up a notch. For crunch, try a few thinly sliced scallions, or even a toss of toasted sesame seeds if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice really shines as a standalone meal, but if you want to round out your dinner, a crisp green salad or a side of steamed broccoli works beautifully. For a cookout vibe, serve it with corn on the cob or a chilled cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice family-style, right from the skillet for a rustic and inviting touch. For a fun twist, spoon portions into individual bowls and top with avocado slices or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Hosting guests? Use small cast-iron skillets to create personal servings that look elegant and feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it a delicious lunch you’ll look forward to the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. The rice and chicken lean flavors hold up well for up to two months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of extra broth or water to keep everything moist. Alternatively, microwave smaller portions in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until piping hot. Add a fresh scatter of parsley and an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce to revive that just-cooked goodness.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid. Add about 1/2 cup extra broth and plan for 15–20 more minutes of simmering, checking for doneness as you go.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for cubes of extra-firm tofu or even chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and stir everything gently so the protein holds its shape.

What vegetables can I add for variety?

Try adding frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots along with the bell peppers. Spinach or kale stirred in at the end is another great way to sneak in some greens and vibrant color.

Can I make One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice ahead of time?

You can prepare the entire dish in advance and gently reheat it before serving, or even prep the chicken and chop the veggies a day ahead for super-fast assembly on busy nights.

What’s the best way to keep the rice from sticking?

Be sure to use a skillet with a good nonstick surface or a well-seasoned cast-iron pan, and always cook over low heat while simmering. If the rice seems dry, add an extra splash of broth as needed to keep things tender and steamy.

Final Thoughts

One-Skillet Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is one of those rare dishes that’s as satisfying to cook as it is to eat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want minimal clean-up and maximum comfort, give this recipe a try—you’ll be hooked by the juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and that irresistible BBQ glaze. Can’t wait for you to share it around your table soon!

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