Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple and tasty meal that brings together tender chicken glazed with sweet honey barbecue sauce and fluffy, warm rice. The mix of sticky, flavorful sauce with the soft rice makes every bite feel like a little celebration on your plate. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy to put together but tastes like you spent hours cooking.
I love making this dish on busy weeknights because it comes together quickly and still feels special. One tip I have is to use a good quality BBQ sauce and a drizzle of honey to get that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The chicken turns out juicy, and the rice soaks up just enough sauce to keep things moist without being soggy.
My favorite way to serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is with a side of steamed veggies or a crisp green salad to add some freshness. It’s a meal that everyone in my family enjoys, and it’s perfect for packing lunchboxes too. This recipe always reminds me of cozy dinners where flavors are simple, comforting, and downright satisfying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken thighs or breasts: Thighs stay juicy and tender with the sauce, but breasts work if you want leaner meat. Just avoid drying them out; cook breasts carefully on medium heat.
Barbecue sauce and honey: These create the sweet and tangy glaze. If you don’t have BBQ sauce, try hoisin or teriyaki with honey for a slightly different taste. Adjust honey if you prefer less sweetness.
Rice: Jasmine or long-grain rice is best for fluffy texture that soaks up sauce. Brown rice is a good healthier swap but takes longer to cook. Instant rice can work too if short on time.
Broccoli: Adds color and crunch. Frozen broccoli works fine—just steam or sauté it well. You can swap it for green beans, snap peas, or any quick-cooking veggie you like.
How Do I Cook Chicken So It’s Juicy and Well Glazed?
The key is cooking chicken over medium heat and letting the sauce thicken on the meat without burning it. Here’s what I do:
- Season chicken well and sear in hot oil until golden on both sides (5-7 mins each).
- Add the honey BBQ sauce and turn the chicken gently to coat it.
- Cook for 2-3 mins more to let the sauce thicken and stick to the meat.
- Keep the heat medium so the sugar in the honey doesn’t burn but caramelizes slightly.
This way, the chicken stays moist inside and gets a sticky, flavorful coating outside that’s just right for serving over rice.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium pot with lid – I use this to cook the rice; it’s simple and keeps the rice fluffy.
- Skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking the chicken and letting it caramelize in the sauce.
- Small bowl – handy for mixing the honey BBQ sauce before pouring over the chicken.
- Steamer basket or microwave-safe dish – for quickly steaming or sautéing the broccoli.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help get the right amounts of sauce, honey, and liquids.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try adding sliced bell peppers or onions to the skillet with the chicken for extra color and flavor.
- Use different proteins like pork chops or tofu for variety and to suit dietary needs.
- Swap broccoli for steamed carrots, snap peas, or green beans for different textures and tastes.
- Add a dash of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the sauce for a smoky or spicy kick.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 cup white jasmine or long-grain rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for cooking rice)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steamed or lightly sautéed)
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 30 to 35 minutes total. You’ll spend 15 minutes cooking the rice and about 15-20 minutes preparing and cooking the chicken and broccoli. It’s a simple dinner that’s ready quickly, perfect for busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, combine the rice with 2 cups of water or chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is soft. Fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Honey BBQ Sauce:
While the rice cooks, mix together the barbecue sauce and honey in a small bowl until smooth. This sweet and tangy sauce will give the chicken a delicious glaze.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat the cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Adding the Sauce and Cooking Broccoli:
Pour the honey BBQ sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, turning the chicken so it’s fully coated and the sauce thickens and caramelizes slightly. Meanwhile, steam or lightly sauté the broccoli until bright green and tender-crisp.
5. Serving Your Dish:
Plate a bed of rice, top it with the honey BBQ chicken, and arrange the broccoli on the side. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or green onions over the chicken for a fresh touch. Enjoy your tasty and easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps the sauce stick better to the chicken.
Can I Substitute the Rice with Another Grain?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap jasmine rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a different texture or a healthier option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the rice moist.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! Add chili flakes to the sauce when mixing or sprinkle some on the chicken while cooking for an extra kick. You can also choose a spicy BBQ sauce for more heat.
