One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Easy Delicious Meal

Introduction

Did you know that one-pan recipes can save you up to 30% on cleanup time compared to traditional multi-pot dishes? That’s just one of the many reasons why our One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a game-changer. This flavorful and nourishing meal combines tender chicken, aromatic rice, and a delectable honey-infused barbecue sauce, all cooked in a single pan for maximum convenience. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this savory and satisfying dish.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped scallions or fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Substitutions:

• Chicken breasts can be used instead of thighs for a leaner option.
• Brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for the white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
• Honey can be replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile.

Timing

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

This one-pan recipe takes approximately 40 minutes to prepare, which is 20% faster than the average chicken and rice dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and set them aside. Measure out the rice, chicken broth, honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. If you’d like a bit of heat, add the red pepper flakes.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains are lightly toasted and fragrant. This step helps to ensure the rice cooks evenly and develops a delicious nutty flavor.

Step 3: Add the Chicken and Sauce

Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re lightly browned on the outside. Pour in the chicken broth, honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Bake in the Oven

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through. Periodically check the dish and give it a gentle stir to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Serve the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot, garnished with chopped scallions or fresh parsley if desired. Pair it with a crisp salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 440 per serving
• Total Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 670mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 48g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 32g

This one-pan dish provides a balanced and nutrient-dense meal, with a good source of lean protein from the chicken, complex carbohydrates from the rice, and a variety of vitamins and minerals.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this dish even more nutritious, consider the following modifications:

• Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
• Swap out the barbecue sauce for a homemade, low-sugar version or use a healthier store-bought option.
• Reduce the amount of honey and consider using a smaller portion of a natural sweetener like maple syrup or molasses.
• Incorporate more vegetables, such as broccoli, bell peppers, or peas, to increase the fiber and vitamin content.
• Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner protein source.

Serving Suggestions

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:

• A fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette
• Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts
• Steamed broccoli or cauliflower
• Garlic-infused sautéed spinach or kale
• A side of whole-grain dinner rolls or crusty bread

For a heartier meal, you can also top the dish with avocado slices, toasted almonds, or a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the rice: Be sure to follow the recommended baking time and check the rice for doneness. Overcooked rice can become mushy and unappetizing.
2. Not searing the chicken: Taking the time to sear the chicken before baking helps to lock in the juices and develop a delicious caramelized crust.
3. Forgetting to adjust seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as needed to balance the flavors.
4. Using the wrong type of rice: Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe, as it maintains a light and fluffy texture. Short-grain or brown rice may require adjustments to the liquid and cooking time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the perfect meal-prep option. Here are some tips for storing and reheating the leftovers:

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• The cooked dish will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated.
• For best results, avoid reheating the dish multiple times, as this can dry out the chicken and rice.

Conclusion

Our One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delicious, time-saving, and nutritious meal that the whole family will love. With its irresistible flavors, easy preparation, and minimal cleanup, this dish is sure to become a new weeknight staple in your home. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below or share your own tips and variations. And don’t forget to subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes and cooking inspiration!

FAQs

A: Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe. Chicken breasts will provide a leaner protein source, but the cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out.

B: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the entire dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

C: Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe as written has a mild spice level, thanks to the optional red pepper flakes. If you prefer a bolder, spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or try adding a bit of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you’re sensitive to heat, you can omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

D: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great substitute for the white rice in this recipe. Keep in mind that brown rice may require a slightly longer cooking time, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly. Start by baking the dish for 25-30 minutes and check the rice for doneness.

E: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?

While this recipe is designed for a one-pan stovetop and oven method, you can certainly adapt it for a slow cooker or Instant Pot. For a slow cooker, simply add all the ingredients to the pot, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function to sear the chicken and toast the rice, then pressure cook the dish for 15-20 minutes.

OnePan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Easy Delicious Meal

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• Author: felis
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

OnePan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Quick flavorful meal using simple ingredients Easy cooking tech Delicious familyfriendly dish

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup long-grain white rice

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

1/2 cup honey

1/4 cup barbecue sauce

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and black pepper to taste

Chopped scallions or fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces and set them aside.

In a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains are lightly toasted and fragrant.

Next, add the chicken pieces to the pan and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they’re lightly browned on the outside. Pour in the chicken broth, honey, barbecue sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together until well combined.

Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Serve the One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot, garnished with chopped scallions or fresh parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 440
• Sugar: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g

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