Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite weeknight dinner! This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delightful combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables all coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce. Perfect for busy days or when you want to enjoy a cozy meal at home, this dish brings a burst of flavor and happiness to the dinner table. With just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 pound chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer.
- Add the diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, which should take about 8-10 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey BBQ sauce over it, stirring to coat every morsel evenly. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing those luscious flavors to meld together.
- Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, corn, black beans, and diced bell peppers. Mix everything together generously so each bite bursts with different flavors.
- Next, add the delectable BBQ chicken mixture to your rice bowl. Stir everything until well combined, making sure that the wonderful sauce gets distributed throughout.
- For a finishing touch, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top and add fresh cilantro, if you desire, for that extra pop of flavor and color.
- Serve this delightful Honey BBQ Chicken Rice warm and enjoy every savory bite!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the sweetness of the BBQ sauce to your taste. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheat beautifully in the microwave. You can also serve this dish in lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb option!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes the sautéing technique for the chicken, ensuring it gets nicely browned for a rich flavor. Simmering the BBQ sauce with the chicken helps to create a delicious glaze that clings to the meat, enhancing the overall taste. Mixing the rice and veggies in a bowl allows for even incorporation of flavors, making every bite delicious!
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
No problem! Just keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time and will give a nuttier flavor to the dish.
What type of BBQ sauce is best?
You can use any honey BBQ sauce you love — whether it’s smoky, spicy, or sweet; each type will bring a unique flavor to the dish! Experiment to find your favorite.
Conclusion
This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is not only easy to prepare but also a comforting dish that brings warmth to your home. It’s perfect for families or for meal prepping a week’s worth of delicious lunches. Give this flavorful recipe a try, and you’ll surely find it becoming a staple in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy the smiles at your dinner table as everyone digs into this vibrant and satisfying dish!