Honey BBQ Chicken with Seasoned Rice

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Honey BBQ Chicken with Seasoned Rice

This Honey BBQ Chicken with Seasoned Rice is the ultimate combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Tender, juicy chicken coated in a sticky honey barbecue glaze pairs perfectly with fluffy, seasoned rice, making it a comfort food favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, using simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this perfect for beginners.
  • Full of Flavor: The combination of honey, barbecue sauce, and smoked paprika creates an irresistible caramelized glaze.
  • Perfectly Balanced: Juicy chicken and seasoned rice complement each other beautifully.
  • Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it ideal for leftovers and meal planning.

Ingredients

For the Honey BBQ Chicken:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce (use your favorite brand)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (for a touch of sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce (adds depth of flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smoky kick)

For the Seasoned Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (for added flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

  1. In a mixing bowl, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides.
  3. The chicken should be fully cooked but still juicy at this stage.

Step 3: Make the Honey BBQ Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and smoked paprika until well combined.
  2. Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken in the skillet.
  3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and caramelizes, coating the chicken beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Seasoned Rice

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, butter, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, and salt.
  2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
  4. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Spoon the seasoned rice onto plates or into bowls.
  2. Top with the honey BBQ chicken, making sure to drizzle extra sauce over the dish.
  3. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.
  4. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory goodness.

Serving Suggestions

This Honey BBQ Chicken with Seasoned Rice pairs well with:

  • Steamed Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, sautéed green beans, or grilled zucchini.
  • Corn on the Cob: A buttery, smoky side dish that enhances the BBQ flavors.
  • Coleslaw: A refreshing, crunchy contrast to the warm, caramelized chicken.
  • Dinner Rolls or Garlic Bread: To soak up the delicious sauce.

Recipe Variations

  • Make It Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
  • Use Chicken Thighs: Substitute chicken breasts with boneless, skinless thighs for extra juiciness.
  • Grill It Instead: Marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce and grill over medium heat for a smoky, charred finish.
  • Swap the Rice: Try serving with cilantro lime rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for variety.
  • Make It Dairy-Free: Replace butter with olive oil when cooking the rice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later:

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: The chicken and rice can be stored separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm the chicken and rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes! Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or make a homemade version if you prefer.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook. The rice can also be made ahead and reheated when serving.

What can I use instead of honey?

If you prefer a different sweetener, you can use maple syrup, brown sugar, or agave nectar.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce and BBQ sauce, this recipe can be made completely gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Honey BBQ Chicken with Seasoned Rice is a must-try recipe that delivers bold flavors, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Try it today and enjoy a homemade meal that tastes even better than takeout!

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