One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a must-try! Here’s why you’ll love it:

• One-Pan Simplicity: Minimal cleanup makes this dish as practical as it is delicious.
• Bold Flavors: A rich, tangy, and slightly sweet blend of honey, BBQ sauce, and spices.
• Customizable: Add veggies, adjust spice levels, or swap proteins to suit your taste.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple pantry staples.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for kids, adults, and guests!

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Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this dish lies in its simple yet indulgent ingredients.

For the Dish:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• Green onions (for garnish)

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Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to make this bold, flavorful dish? Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Your Pan
   Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil to coat the pan.
2. Sear the Chicken
   Season chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
   Add to the hot pan and sear for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Rice
   In the same pan, stir the rice for 1–2 minutes to toast it slightly.
   Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits.
4. Add the Sauce & Chicken
   Stir in honey and BBQ sauce until well combined.
   Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture.
5. Bake the Dish
   Cover with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
   The rice should be tender, and the chicken cooked through (165°F/75°C).
6. Add Veggies (Optional)
   If using frozen peas and carrots or diced bell peppers, stir them into the rice during the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish & Serve
   Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
   Garnish with sliced green onions or fresh herbs before serving.

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Why This Recipe Works
The balance of flavors and textures makes this dish shine. The honey adds sweetness, BBQ sauce brings tang, and smoked paprika gives a rich, smoky aroma. Tender chicken pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, making this meal both satisfying and easy to prepare.

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Variations to Try
Want to change things up? Try these tasty variations:

• Add Veggies: Stir in zucchini, spinach, or corn for extra nutrition.
• Swap Proteins: Use shrimp, sausage, or tofu instead of chicken.
• Spice It Up: Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free chicken broth and BBQ sauce.
• Cilantro-Lime Twist: Stir in fresh lime juice and cilantro for a refreshing finish.

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Tips for Success

• Use Quality BBQ Sauce: A high-quality BBQ sauce enhances the flavor.
• Toast the Rice: This prevents mushiness and adds nuttiness.
• Save Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
• Make Ahead: Prep ingredients ahead and bake just before serving.
• Double the Recipe: Easily scale for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

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Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are some ways to serve it:

• Brunch Favorite: Serve alongside scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos.
• Game Night Treat: Perfect for casual gatherings and potlucks.
• Pairing Perfection: Goes well with a crisp salad, roasted veggies, or garlic bread.
• Meal Prep Idea: Divide into portions for quick meals throughout the week.

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Final Thoughts
With bold flavors, tender chicken, and fluffy rice, One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a dish worth making again and again. Whether for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.

Give it a try—you won’t regret it! Have you made this yet? Share your thoughts and favorite variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!