Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice: Simple One-Pan Weeknight Dinner

One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice is not just a meal; it’s a weeknight culinary revelation! Imagine a dinner solution that delivers robust, unforgettable flavors, satisfying textures, and the ultimate convenience, all cooked to perfection in a single pan. As someone who deeply appreciates both delicious food and precious time, I believe we’re all on a constant quest for recipes that simplify our lives without ever compromising on taste. This remarkable dish perfectly embodies that philosophy, transforming the perennial ‘what’s for dinner?’ dilemma into a delightful, stress-free experience that everyone will love.

While this particular ingenious combination might be a modern marvel born from our increasingly busy schedules, its essence taps into the universal appeal of comforting rice dishes and the irresistible allure of sweet, smoky, and savory BBQ flavors. Cultures across the globe have celebrated the art of combining a staple grain with succulent protein, and this recipe brings that time-honored tradition into a contemporary, incredibly accessible format. It’s a testament to how home cooking can evolve, gracefully embracing efficiency while still delivering profound culinary satisfaction. People absolutely adore this dish for its incredible balance of tender, honey-BBQ glazed chicken, perfectly cooked fluffy rice, and a medley of vibrant vegetables that effortlessly soak up all those magnificent juices. The truly magical part, however, is the cleanup—it’s almost non-existent! Preparing a delicious One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice means more time savoring your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans, making it a beloved staple in countless busy homes.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

Alright, let’s gather everything we need for our incredible One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice! This recipe is designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier, so make sure you have these fresh and flavorful items on hand. I always find that having everything prepped and ready before I start cooking makes the whole process so much more enjoyable.

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces (I find thighs stay juicier, but breasts work too!)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for that lovely depth of flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• For the Rice & Vegetables:
  • 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed thoroughly (rinsing is key to prevent stickiness!)
  • 3 cups chicken broth, low sodium preferred
  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped (I love the color and sweetness it adds!)
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped (for a bit of freshness and contrast)
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, no need to thaw
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas, no need to thaw
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
• For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (I like a classic smoky variety)
  • 1/4 cup honey (to balance the savory and tangy notes)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (adds a nice tang and cuts through the richness)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami depth)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (a little kick!)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional (if you like a little heat, like I do!)
• For Garnishing (Optional, but highly recommended!):
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced
  • A squeeze of fresh lime juice

Prepping the Chicken and Vegetables

Let’s get all our foundational ingredients ready. This phase is all about precision and making sure everything is prepped to cook evenly and efficiently in one pan, which is the magic of our One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice!

1. Prepare the Chicken: First things first, let’s get our chicken ready! I always start by patting the boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps any seasonings adhere better and ensures we get the most flavor. Once dry, grab a sharp knife and cut each thigh into roughly 1-inch to 1.5-inch pieces. Aim for relatively uniform sizes so everything cooks evenly. In a medium bowl, toss the cut chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure every piece is nicely coated. This seasoning step is vital for building a flavorful base for our chicken. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the other components.
2. Rinse the Rice: This might seem like a small step, but it makes a big difference! Place 2 cups of long-grain white rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse it under cold running water. Agitate the rice with your fingers as you rinse until the water runs clear. This process removes excess starch, which prevents the rice from becoming gummy or sticky when cooked. Once rinsed, let it drain thoroughly.
3. Chop the Vegetables: Now for our colorful veggies! Take your medium yellow onion and chop it into a medium dice. For the red and green bell peppers, remove the stems and seeds, then chop them into pieces roughly the same size as your chicken – about 1-inch squares. This consistency in size is important because it ensures all the ingredients cook at a similar rate, leading to perfectly tender veggies and chicken in your One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice. Finally, mince 2 cloves of garlic. Having all your vegetables prepped and ready to go will make the assembly process incredibly smooth.

Crafting the Honey BBQ Sauce

The sauce is truly the star of this dish, bringing all the flavors together in a sweet, smoky, and tangy embrace. Don’t skip these steps – it’s simple to make and incredibly delicious!

4. Whisk the Sauce Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup of honey, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Use a whisk to combine all these ingredients thoroughly until the sauce is completely smooth and homogenous. Taste the sauce at this point – you can adjust the sweetness with more honey, the tang with more vinegar, or the heat with additional red pepper flakes to suit your personal preference. This homemade touch elevates the store-bought BBQ sauce to something truly special, perfectly complementing the chicken and rice.

Assembling the One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice

This is where the magic of the “one pan” really comes to life! Layering the ingredients correctly is crucial for even cooking and maximum flavor distribution. You’ll love how everything comes together in one dish.

5. Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan: First, preheat your oven to a comfortable 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, grab a large oven-safe baking dish or a 9×13 inch casserole dish. You want something with enough surface area to allow the ingredients to spread out a bit, ensuring everything cooks evenly without steaming too much. Lightly grease the bottom of the pan with a little cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
6. Layer the Rice and Aromatics: Spread the thoroughly rinsed and drained white rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This forms the base of our One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice. On top of the rice, scatter the chopped yellow onion, chopped red bell pepper, chopped green bell pepper, and the minced garlic. Try to distribute them as evenly as possible over the rice. This layering ensures that the flavors from the aromatics infuse into the rice as it cooks.
7. Add the Liquid: Carefully pour 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth over the rice and vegetables. Gently shake the pan a little to ensure the liquid settles around all the rice grains. It’s important not to stir at this point; we want the rice to cook consistently at the bottom without the chicken interfering with its absorption.
8. Arrange the Chicken: Now, evenly spread the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the vegetables and rice. Try to arrange them in a single layer if possible, though a little overlap is fine. We want the chicken to cook directly in the moisture and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
9. Drizzle with Honey BBQ Sauce: Generously pour the prepared honey BBQ sauce over the chicken pieces. Use a spoon or a brush to ensure that most of the chicken is coated. Don’t worry if some sauce drips down into the rice; that’s part of the plan for ultimate flavor! This sauce is what truly transforms this into our signature One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice.

Baking and Finishing Touches

This is the exciting part where everything comes together in the oven! Patiently waiting for that aroma to fill your kitchen is half the fun. We’ll ensure the rice is fluffy, the chicken is tender, and the sauce is perfectly caramelized.

10. Cover and Bake (Initial Phase): Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This traps the steam, which is essential for cooking the rice properly and keeping the chicken moist. Transfer the covered dish to your preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Do not peek during this initial baking phase! The steam needs to build up and cook the rice efficiently.
11. Uncover and Continue Baking: After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil from the baking dish. At this point, the rice should be partially cooked, and the chicken will be well on its way. Gently stir in the 1 cup of frozen corn kernels and 1/2 cup of frozen peas. Distribute them evenly throughout the dish. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C), the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, and the sauce has thickened slightly and caramelized around the chicken. You might notice some beautiful browning on the chicken and around the edges of the dish.
12. Rest the Dish: Once fully cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. This next step is crucial for the best texture and flavor: allow the One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice to rest, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld, the rice to firm up slightly, and the chicken to reabsorb its juices, making it even more tender and delicious.
13. Fluff and Serve: After resting, use a fork to gently fluff the rice. You’ll be amazed at how light and separated the grains are, thanks to that initial rinsing! Give everything a good gentle stir to ensure all the sauce and chicken are evenly distributed throughout the rice.
14. Garnish and Enjoy: Transfer generous portions of the hot One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice to individual plates. For a fresh finish, sprinkle with your optional garnishes: plenty of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, and a scattering of sliced green onions. For an extra bright kick, a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving can really elevate all the flavors. Serve immediately and bask in the glory of your effortless, incredibly flavorful one-pan meal! This dish is a complete meal on its own, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Conclusion:

Well, my friends, we’ve journeyed through the simple steps, savored the promise of incredible flavors, and now it’s time to truly underscore why this particular recipe isn’t just another meal idea – it’s a revelation waiting to happen in your kitchen. I truly believe that once you experience the sheer convenience and delightful taste of what I affectionately call the One Pan Honey Bbq Chicken Rice, it will quickly become a cherished staple in your culinary repertoire. This isn’t just about putting food on the table; it’s about doing so with minimal fuss, maximum flavor, and an astonishingly easy cleanup that will leave you wondering why you ever cooked any other way. Imagine tender, juicy chicken pieces, perfectly coated in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ glaze, nestled amongst fluffy, savory rice, all cooked together in a single pan. The magic lies in how the flavors meld and deepen as everything cooks simultaneously, infusing every grain of rice with the rich essence of the chicken and the irresistible sauce. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, balancing the sweetness of honey with the tang of BBQ, creating a dish that is both comforting and exciting. For those busy weeknights when time is a luxury, or even for a relaxed weekend meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality satisfaction without the elaborate effort. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for families, busy individuals, or anyone who appreciates smart cooking.

Now, let’s talk about elevating your serving experience. While this dish is utterly fantastic on its own, a few simple additions can truly make it sing. I always love to finish it with a generous sprinkle of fresh, chopped parsley or vibrant green onions, which not only add a pop of color but also a wonderful freshness that cuts through the richness of the BBQ sauce. A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice right before serving can also brighten up the flavors beautifully, adding a zesty counterpoint. For a more substantial meal, consider pairing it with a crisp, refreshing green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette – the coolness and acidity provide a lovely contrast. If you’re leaning into the BBQ theme, a simple coleslaw or some steamed corn on the cob would be absolutely perfect. Don’t underestimate the power of a few toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top for an added layer of texture and a nutty aroma. And for those who love a little extra kick, a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or some red pepper flakes can be a delightful addition, allowing each diner to customize their spice level.

But the beauty of a truly great recipe lies in its adaptability, and this dish is no exception. Feel free to unleash your inner chef and experiment with variations! Instead of chicken, why not try tender pork tenderloin cut into cubes, or even shrimp added in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a seafood twist? Vegetarian friends could easily substitute the chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas, adjusting cooking times as needed to ensure everything is perfectly done. Don’t be shy about adding more vegetables; bell peppers, zucchini, snap peas, or even mushrooms can be incorporated – just consider their cooking times and add them accordingly, perhaps alongside the chicken and rice for firmer veggies, or later for those that cook faster. If you’re a spice enthusiast, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed into the sauce or a dash of sriracha can really turn up the heat. For a cheesy delight, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the top during the last few minutes of baking will melt into a gooey, irresistible layer. You could also play with the BBQ sauce itself – maybe a spicier variant, a smoky mesquite version, or even a homemade blend for a truly personalized touch. And while jasmine rice works wonderfully, brown rice or even quinoa could be used, just remember to adjust the liquid ratios and cooking times as they differ. The possibilities are truly endless, allowing you to tailor this incredible meal to your specific tastes and whatever ingredients you have on hand.

So, there you have it, my comprehensive endorsement of a recipe that I am genuinely excited for you to try. I’m confident that this isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to a delicious, stress-free mealtime. I truly encourage each and every one of you to set aside some time this week, gather your ingredients, and give this wonderful dish a go. Experience the ease, savor the flavors, and revel in the joy of creating something so satisfying with so little fuss. And when you do, please, please share your experience! I absolutely love hearing from you. Did you try a fun variation? Did your family rave about it? Post your photos, share your feedback, and let me know how it turned out for you. Your culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to hear all about your success with this incredibly versatile and utterly delicious meal. Happy cooking!

One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice

This One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a weeknight culinary revelation! It delivers robust, unforgettable flavors, satisfying textures, and ultimate convenience, all cooked to perfection in a single pan. This remarkable dish simplifies your life without compromising on taste, making it a beloved staple in busy homes.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
55 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1-inch pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1/2 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
• Green onions, sliced (optional)
• Fresh lime juice (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Pat dry and cut 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. In a bowl, toss chicken with 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Set aside. Rinse 2 cups long-grain white rice under cold water until clear; drain well. Chop 1 medium yellow onion, 1 red bell pepper, and 1 green bell pepper into 1-inch pieces. Mince 2 cloves garlic.
2. Step 2
   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and optional 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes until smooth and well combined.
3. Step 3
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large oven-safe 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the rinsed rice evenly across the bottom. Scatter chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic over the rice. Carefully pour 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth over the rice and vegetables without stirring.
4. Step 4
   Evenly arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the vegetables and rice. Generously pour the prepared honey BBQ sauce over the chicken, ensuring most pieces are coated.
5. Step 5
   Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Transfer the covered dish to the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6
   Carefully remove the foil. Gently stir in the 1 cup frozen corn kernels and 1/2 cup frozen peas, distributing them evenly. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature 165°F/74°C), rice is tender, and all liquid is absorbed.
7. Step 7
   Once cooked, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest, uncovered, for 5-10 minutes. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice and stir to combine. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley/cilantro, sliced green onions, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice, if desired.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.