Description
This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe combines tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful homemade Honey BBQ sauce with perfectly cooked long-grain rice. It’s a comforting and easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, topped with delightful garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes for an extra pop of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Honey BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup Honey BBQ Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
Rice
- 2 cups long-grain rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Garnishes
- Chopped green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce: In a medium saucepan, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened and flavorful.
- Taste and Adjust Sauce: Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as desired, adding more honey for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or cayenne for heat. Remove from heat and let cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator if not using immediately.
- Marinate the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry and cut into 1-inch pieces if needed. In a large bowl, combine chicken, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Sear the chicken on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Simmer in BBQ Sauce: Pour the prepared Honey BBQ sauce over the seared chicken in the skillet. Stir to coat all pieces evenly. Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender. Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional Shred: If desired, shred the chicken directly in the skillet using two forks for a tender texture. This step is optional and based on preference.
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth (or water), butter or olive oil, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5-10 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Assemble and Serve: Spoon the cooked rice into serving bowls. Top generously with Honey BBQ chicken and sauce. Garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.
Notes
- The honey BBQ sauce can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to a week.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add extra chili powder.
- If you prefer a milder flavor, omit cayenne pepper entirely.
- Using chicken broth instead of water for cooking rice adds extra flavor.
- Leftover Honey BBQ chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheated gently.
- Feel free to substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different twist.
