Introduction
Welcome to a deliciously comforting meal that will become one of your go-to weeknight dinners! This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice combines tender, juicy chicken thighs with savory rice and vibrant mixed vegetables, all infused with a rich honey BBQ sauce. With minimal cleanup thanks to just one pan, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you still want to treat your family to something special. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that will surely make the dinner table a little more inviting!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are generously coated in the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even longer for more flavor.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, searing them until they turn a beautiful golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low, letting it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the frozen mixed vegetables on top. Re-cover the skillet, allowing the steam to warm the veggies without overcooking.
- Once done, remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Let it sit, covered, for a few minutes to absorb any remaining moisture.
- Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness!
Notes or Tips
For a bit of extra kick, try adding your favorite hot sauce to the marinade. This recipe is also versatile—feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for any fresh or frozen varieties you love. Additionally, if you prefer a lighter flavor, you can use grilled chicken instead of marinated.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily focuses on searing and simmering. Searing the chicken creates a rich, caramelized crust that locks in moisture and flavor, while simmering the rice allows it to absorb the delicious broth, making each grain fluffy and flavorful. Toasting the rice before cooking enhances its nutty flavor, providing a wonderful base for this one-pan dinner.
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and add more liquid, as brown rice typically requires more time to become tender.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. You can also prepare the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
This One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken & Rice is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a sweet and smoky flavor that will tempt even the pickiest eaters. With its straightforward preparation and minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for family dinners and gatherings. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a comforting, hearty dish that’s sure to impress!