Honey BBQ Chicken Rice:

Looking for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to whip up? This honey BBQ chicken rice recipe is your answer! Combining tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce with fluffy rice, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors that’s sure to satisfy. Ideal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this honey BBQ chicken rice recipe brings bold, comforting taste to your table with minimal effort.

This recipe is all about simplicity and big flavor. With pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal in about 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or BBQ lovers, this dish is versatile and customizable. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process, share tips for perfect results, and answer common questions. Get ready to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Recipe

Quick and Easy

Ready in about 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a homemade meal without hours of prep.

Sweet and Savory

The honey BBQ sauce adds a perfect blend of sweetness and tanginess, making every bite irresistibly delicious.

Family-Friendly

This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, thanks to its familiar flavors and hearty, comforting appeal.

Versatile

Serve it with rice, veggies, or even in wraps. You can tweak the sauce or add-ins to suit your taste.

Ingredients for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this tasty dish. Most ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find!

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp chili powder (optional, for a slight kick)

For the Honey BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 garlic clove, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)

For the Rice

• 2 cups long-grain white rice (or brown rice)
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt

For Serving (Optional)

• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro
• Lime wedges for squeezing
• Sliced avocado or coleslaw for extra texture

Step-by-Step Recipe for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.
3. Add the rice, butter, and salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (or 40-45 minutes for brown rice) until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if using).
2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remove from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce

1. In a small saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Set aside.

Step 4: Shred or Slice the Chicken

1. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks or slice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour half of the honey BBQ sauce over it. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Divide the cooked rice among 4-6 plates or bowls.
2. Top with the honey BBQ chicken and a spoonful of extra sauce.
3. Add corn, green onions, or cilantro for garnish, and serve with avocado slices or coleslaw if desired.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the dish warm with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
2. Pair with a side salad, roasted veggies, or tortilla chips for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Choose the Right Chicken

Boneless thighs are juicier, but breasts work well too. Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.

Balance the Sauce

Adjust the honey or vinegar to your taste. For a sweeter sauce, add more honey; for tangier, add more vinegar.

Cook Rice Fluffy

Rinse the rice to prevent stickiness, and use chicken broth instead of water for extra flavor.

Don’t Overcook the Chicken

Check the internal temperature to avoid dry chicken. Let it rest before shredding to keep it juicy.

Add Veggies

Incorporate veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or peas into the rice or as a side for extra color and nutrition.

Variations of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken

Add 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy twist. Garnish with sliced jalapeños.

Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Rice

Swap half the BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce and add sesame seeds and green onions for an Asian-inspired flavor.

Vegetarian BBQ Rice Bowl

Replace chicken with grilled tofu, mushrooms, or jackfruit. Use a vegetarian BBQ sauce for the same sweet-savory taste.

BBQ Chicken Rice Tacos

Serve the chicken and rice in soft tortillas with avocado, cilantro, and a drizzle of extra sauce for a taco twist.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

• Store rice and chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze the chicken and rice (without garnishes) in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until warmed through.
• For best results, reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of sauce to keep it moist.

FAQs 

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes! Choose a high-quality BBQ sauce or enhance it with honey, vinegar, or spices for a homemade touch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the rice and chicken up to a day in advance. Store separately in the fridge and reheat before assembling.

What type of rice is best?

Long-grain white rice is fluffy and versatile, but brown rice or jasmine rice add great flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free BBQ sauce and soy sauce, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I make the dish spicier?

Add chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce, or garnish with sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

Related Recipes:

• Honey Garlic Chicken for Busy Nights Recipe
• Black Pepper Chicken Recipe
• Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes Skillet Recipe

Final Thoughts

This honey BBQ chicken rice recipe is a perfect mix of sweet, savory, and comforting flavors, making it a go-to for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare, family-friendly, and easy to customize, ensuring everyone at the table is happy. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!