Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Looking for a dinner that’s absolutely bursting with sweet, smoky, and savory goodness? Look no further—Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the very best way to satisfy that comfort food craving!

Tender, juicy chicken tossed in a lip-smacking honey BBQ glaze sits atop fluffy, seasoned rice, all in one easy skillet. Every bite is packed with irresistible sticky-sweet flavor and that signature BBQ tang.

This dish is a must-try for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s ready in under an hour, feeds a crowd, and is always a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, you only need one pan to make it happen!

Inspired by my love for summer BBQs and the convenience of one-bowl dinners, this recipe is a personal favorite I reach for when I want maximum flavor without the fuss.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor—all made in just one skillet.
• Bold BBQ flavor: Sweet honey, tangy BBQ sauce, and juicy chicken are a match made in heaven.
• Fast & filling: Ready in 45 minutes and hearty enough to satisfy any appetite.
• Crowd-pleaser: Kids and adults both love the sticky, sweet, and saucy goodness.

Key Ingredients for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is the star protein here, offering lean, tender bites that soak up the sticky honey BBQ sauce perfectly. Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative—they’ll make the dish even juicier! For a shortcut, rotisserie chicken can be shredded and tossed in at the end.

Honey

Honey brings natural sweetness and helps create that signature glossy, sticky glaze we all love in BBQ recipes. Use pure honey for best results—floral or clover honey both work well. If you’re out, maple syrup makes a tasty substitute with a hint of earthiness.

BBQ Sauce

A good BBQ sauce is essential for both flavor and moisture. Go with your favorite brand—classic, smoky, or spicy, depending on your mood. If you’re watching sugar or need a gluten-free option, there are many specialty BBQ sauces available. Don’t be afraid to try a homemade version for that extra personal touch (like this homemade BBQ sauce recipe)!

Long Grain Rice

Long grain white rice cooks up fluffy and doesn’t clump, making it perfect for soaking up all the sauce and juices. Rinse the rice to remove extra starch before cooking. Brown rice or jasmine rice are great alternatives—just adjust the cook time as needed.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika gives the dish a subtle warmth and layers of smoky BBQ flavor, enhancing the sauce and chicken. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, or add a pinch of chipotle powder for extra heat.

Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Prep the Chicken and Aromatics

Start by dicing your chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic so everything is ready to go when it’s time to cook.

Sauté the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden but not fully cooked through. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened, then add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds more, just until fragrant.

Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir and toast for 1-2 minutes until the rice is slightly translucent and coated in the oil and aromatics.

Simmer Everything Together

Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, honey, onion powder, and (if using) corn. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.

Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender, the chicken is cooked through, and most of the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks to ensure it steams properly.

Finish and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and taste for seasoning, adding more BBQ sauce or salt if desired. Garnish generously with sliced green onions and fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations

Make It Spicy

Craving a kick? Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the BBQ sauce. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce to bring even more heat!

Veggie-Loaded Version

Add chopped bell peppers, diced zucchini, or a handful of spinach to the skillet when you sauté the onions. This bulks up the meal with extra color, nutrients, and texture.

Swap the Protein

No chicken? No problem! Try this recipe with diced turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a plant-based take. Adjust cooking times as needed—shrimp cooks faster, while tofu will benefit from a quick sear to get crispy edges.

Gluten-Free Option

Use a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce and double-check your chicken broth label to keep this dish fully gluten-free. It’s an easy swap that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor.

Whole Grain Twist

Switch out white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a boost of fiber and nutrients. Just remember to increase the broth and cooking time (brown rice typically needs about 35-40 minutes).

Looking for more BBQ-inspired meals? Check out these BBQ Chicken Skewers for your next cookout!

Serving Suggestions

Serve Honey BBQ Chicken Rice with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete, balanced meal. For added crunch, top with thinly sliced radishes or serve alongside coleslaw. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded cheese makes a creamy, cool finishing touch. Don’t forget extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave individual servings with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist, or warm gently on the stove over low heat. This dish also freezes well—portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Honey BBQ Chicken Rice (FAQ)

Q: Can I use leftover cooked chicken in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Just add shredded or diced cooked chicken when you add the rice and broth. Reduce the simmering time by a few minutes since the chicken just needs to heat through.

Q: What kind of BBQ sauce works best?
A: Any BBQ sauce you love will work—classic, honey, smoky, or spicy. Pick your favorite for the flavor profile you prefer. For a homemade option, check out this simple BBQ sauce recipe.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare as directed, cool completely, and refrigerate. Reheat gently for a quick and easy meal prep option.

Ready for a new family favorite? This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is everything you crave in a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and fuss-free. Give it a try, and don’t forget to leave a comment or rating to let me know how it turned out—your feedback means the world!