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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

A comforting one-pot dish featuring tender chicken thighs and fluffy rice glazed in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs Tender and juicy, perfect for this recipe.
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) Cooks fluffy and complements the dish.
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred) Enhances flavor while keeping it healthier.
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand.
  • 1/4 cup honey Adds sweetness that caramelizes while cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1-2 cloves garlic (minced) Use fresh for the best flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (optional, thaw if frozen) Feel free to mix in your favorites.
  • 2 tablespoons green onions (chopped for garnish) Adds freshness to the dish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken thighs generously on both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow to sit for a minute.
  2. Heat a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat.
Cooking
  1. Sear the seasoned chicken for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside, retaining drippings in the pan.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic until combined.
  3. In the same skillet, add uncooked rice and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and half of the honey BBQ sauce mixture, stir to blend.
  5. Nestle chicken thighs back into the rice and pour remaining sauce over them. Cover and reduce heat to low, simmer for 15 minutes.
  6. If using vegetables, scatter them over the rice, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes until rice is tender and chicken reaches 165°F.
  7. Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Notes

For best results, ensure skillet is hot when searing the chicken to lock in juices. Adjust spices for taste preferences.