One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

There is something deeply satisfying about a meal that comes together in a single pan, filling the kitchen with an aroma that promises both comfort and flavor. This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is that kind of meal. It was born on a particularly chaotic Tuesday, when the sink was full of dishes and my patience was running low. I needed something that felt like a treat but required the effort of a simple weeknight staple. The result was this glorious, sticky, savory-sweet dish that has since become a non-negotiable part of our dinner rotation. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a genius for how little cleanup it demands and how much your family will adore it.

Ingredients for One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice starts with a simple lineup of ingredients that pack a major punch. You likely have most of these in your pantry already.

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/3 cup bold and smoky BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Rice and Veggies:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Smart Swaps:

• Chicken: This recipe works wonderfully with pork tenderloin cubes or even large shrimp.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand. For a spicier kick, opt for a chipotle-infused variety.
• Rice: Brown rice can be used but will require a longer cook time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly.
• Veggies: Feel free to add a cup of frozen corn or black beans along with the bell pepper for extra color and fiber.

Timing for Your Easy One Pan Chicken

* Prep Time: 10 minutes
* Cook Time: 25 minutes
* Total Time: 35 minutes

This entire meal comes together in about half an hour, which is significantly faster than ordering takeout and far more rewarding.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your BBQ Chicken and Rice Bake

Making this dish is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Follow these steps for a perfect outcome every time.

1. 
   

   Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Add the cubed chicken pieces and toss until they are thoroughly coated. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients; even 10 minutes makes a difference.

   
   
2. 
   

   Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, reserving any excess marinade in the bowl. Cook for 3-4 minutes, just until the chicken is browned on all sides but not cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

   
   
3. 
   

   Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. This step builds layers of flavor right in the pan.

   
   
4. 
   

   Combine and Simmer: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir it with the vegetables for about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and the reserved marinade from the chicken bowl. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—that’s pure flavor. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.

   
   
5. 
   

   Finish in the Oven: Carefully nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, distributing them evenly over the rice. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil and transfer it to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

   
   
6. 
   

   Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become perfectly fluffy. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve immediately.

   
   

Pro Tip: Do not peek while the dish is in the oven! Keeping the lid on traps the steam, which is essential for cooking the rice properly.

Nutritional Information for Your Weeknight Chicken Dinner

A single serving of this One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice (assuming 4 servings) provides approximately:
* Calories: 485
* Protein: 35g
* Carbohydrates: 65g
* Fat: 8g

This meal is a fantastic source of protein from the chicken and provides energy-sustaining carbohydrates from the rice. The bell peppers add a dose of Vitamin C, making it a well-rounded, satisfying dinner.

Equipment Needed for This Minimal Cleanup Recipe

You do not need any fancy tools for this recipe. The simplicity is part of its charm.
* A large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven (this is non-negotiable)
* A medium mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* A sharp knife and cutting board

If you love the convenience of one-pan meals, you will also adore our One-Pot Polish Sausage, Sauerkraut & Potatoes for another hearty, no-fuss option.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Honey BBQ Chicken Recipe

This recipe earns its spot in your weekly lineup for several compelling reasons.
* Maximum Flavor, Minimal Dishes: Everything cooks in one pan, meaning you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.
* Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: The sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce is a universal winner with both kids and adults.
* Effortless and Foolproof: The steps are simple and the oven does most of the work, making it perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
* Customizable: Easily swap proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.

Healthier Alternatives for Your One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

You can easily adapt this recipe to fit various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
* Lower Sugar: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce and replace the honey with a sprinkle of erythritol or a touch of sugar-free maple syrup.
* Higher Protein: Increase the chicken-to-rice ratio or stir in a can of rinsed black beans at the end of cooking.
* Brown Rice Version: Substitute with brown rice. You will need to increase the chicken broth to 2 1/4 cups and the bake time to 40-45 minutes. Add the chicken back in during the last 20 minutes of cooking to prevent it from drying out.
* Veggie-Packed: Add a cup of chopped zucchini or broccoli florets when you add the bell pepper and onion.

For another healthy and delicious sheet pan option, try our Greek Sheet Pan Chicken Dinner, which is packed with Mediterranean flavors.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but a few simple additions can make it even more special.
* For a fresh contrast, serve it with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette.
* A dollop of cool sour cream or Greek yogurt balances the bold BBQ flavors beautifully.
* If you are feeding a crowd, some warm, buttery cornbread or a loaf of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
* For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lime juice over the top just before serving works wonders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With Your One Pan Dinner

Avoid these simple pitfalls to guarantee a perfect result.
* Not rinsing the rice: Rinsing removes excess starch and prevents the final dish from becoming gummy.
* Using the wrong pan: Ensure your skillet is truly oven-safe. Plastic handles will melt.
* Skipping the sear: Browning the chicken first adds a deep, caramelized flavor that you cannot get from boiling it with the rice.
* Peeking during baking: Lifting the lid releases steam and can result in undercooked, crunchy rice. Trust the process.

Storing Tips for Your One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

This recipe is fantastic for leftovers and meal prep.
* Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
* Freezer: Portion the cooled rice and chicken into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
* Reheating: The best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. You can also microwave it, covered, in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

If you enjoy the make-ahead convenience of this dish, our Chicken Apple Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner is another excellent option for weekly meal prep.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Weeknight Wonder

This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice truly is a weeknight game-changer. It delivers the comfort and flavor of a slow-cooked meal with the speed and simplicity that busy lives demand. The combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and that irresistibly bold honey BBQ sauce is one you will find yourself craving again and again. I hope this recipe brings as much joy and ease to your table as it has to mine.

I would love to hear how your one-pan creation turns out. Let me know in the comments below, and do not forget to share your photos with us on Pinterest by tagging @Harmonymeal. Happy cooking.

FAQs about One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

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There is something deeply satisfying about a meal that comes together in a single pan, filling the kitchen with an aroma that promises both comfort and flavor. This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is that kind of meal. It was born on a particularly chaotic Tuesday, when the sink was full of dishes and my patience was running low. I needed something that felt like a treat but required the effort of a simple weeknight staple. The result was this glorious, sticky, savory-sweet dish that has since become a non-negotiable part of our dinner rotation. It is the kind of recipe that makes you feel like a genius for how little cleanup it demands and how much your family will adore it.

• Author: Harmony
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Chicken and Marinade:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/3 cup bold and smoky BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Rice and Veggies:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion, diced
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Add the cubed chicken pieces and toss until they are thoroughly coated. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients; even 10 minutes makes a difference.
2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken pieces, reserving any excess marinade in the bowl. Cook for 3-4 minutes, just until the chicken is browned on all sides but not cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. This step builds layers of flavor right in the pan.
4. Combine and Simmer: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir it with the vegetables for about a minute. Pour in the chicken broth and the reserved marinade from the chicken bowl. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—that’s pure flavor. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
5. Finish in the Oven: Carefully nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the skillet, distributing them evenly over the rice. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or foil and transfer it to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become perfectly fluffy. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve immediately.

Notes

Pro Tip: Do not peek while the dish is in the oven! Keeping the lid on traps the steam, which is essential for cooking the rice properly. Smart Swaps: Chicken: This recipe works wonderfully with pork tenderloin cubes or even large shrimp. BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand. For a spicier kick, opt for a chipotle-infused variety. Rice: Brown rice can be used but will require a longer cook time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly. Veggies: Feel free to add a cup of frozen corn or black beans along with the bell pepper for extra color and fiber.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 485
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Protein: 35g

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