When I need a simple, satisfying dinner that checks all the boxes—sweet, smoky, savory, and filling—I make honey BBQ chicken rice. Tender chicken tossed in sticky honey barbecue sauce served over fluffy rice makes this one of my favorite quick meals. It’s a no-fuss recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dish because it combines two things I always crave: barbecue flavor and comforting rice. The chicken is juicy and coated in a rich, sweet-and-tangy sauce that caramelizes beautifully. It comes together fast, uses simple ingredients, and makes a great one-bowl meal that even picky eaters enjoy. Plus, I can easily customize it with veggies or change up the grain base for something new.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
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Olive oil
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Salt and black pepper
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Garlic powder
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Cooked white or brown rice
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Honey
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BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
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Soy sauce (for depth and balance)
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Optional: green onions, sesame seeds, or chopped parsley for garnish
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Optional: steamed broccoli, corn, or bell peppers for serving
Directions
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I start by heating olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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I season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then cook them in the skillet until golden and fully cooked—about 5–6 minutes.
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While the chicken cooks, I mix together BBQ sauce, honey, and a splash of soy sauce in a bowl.
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Once the chicken is cooked through, I pour the sauce mixture into the skillet and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
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I simmer everything for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the chicken.
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I serve it hot over bowls of freshly cooked rice, then garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if I want to dress it up.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time is about 10 minutes, cook time is 15–20 minutes, and the whole dish comes together in about 30 minutes total.
Variations
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I use cauliflower rice or quinoa when I want a lighter, grain-free version.
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For extra heat, I stir in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the BBQ mixture.
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I sometimes grill the chicken instead of sautéing it for a smokier flavor.
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When I want to make it a full meal, I toss in steamed broccoli or corn during the last few minutes of cooking.
Storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. I’ve also packed it into meal prep containers with great results for grab-and-go lunches.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?
Yes, I use whatever brand I like—sweet, smoky, or spicy all work well. I sometimes mix in honey to balance the flavors.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. I cook everything and store it in the fridge, then reheat portions throughout the week.
What kind of rice works best?
I usually use jasmine or long-grain white rice, but brown rice, basmati, or even leftover rice works just fine.
Can I make this with rotisserie chicken?
Yes, I’ve shredded rotisserie chicken and tossed it with the sauce for a super quick version.
Is this dish spicy?
Only if I add heat—by default it’s sweet and smoky, but I can easily turn up the spice if I want.
Conclusion
Honey BBQ chicken rice is one of those meals I always come back to—it’s easy, flavorful, and endlessly versatile. I love how quickly it comes together with simple ingredients, and the balance of sweet barbecue and savory chicken over warm rice hits all the right notes. Whether I’m cooking for the family or prepping meals ahead, this dish never lets me down.
Print
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice: A Sweet and Savory One-Bowl Meal Everyone Will Love
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, One-Pan, Weeknight Dinner
- Method: Sautéed, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American-Inspired, BBQ
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a sweet and savory one-bowl meal featuring juicy chicken tossed in sticky honey barbecue sauce and served over fluffy rice. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this quick and flavorful dish comes together in 30 minutes with pantry-friendly ingredients.
Ingredients
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Cooked white or brown rice
- BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- Honey
- Soy sauce
- Optional garnishes: green onions, sesame seeds, parsley
- Optional add-ins: steamed broccoli, corn, or bell peppers
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add to skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked.
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In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce.
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Pour sauce over cooked chicken and stir to coat. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
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Serve over warm rice. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or fresh parsley if desired.
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Add steamed veggies for a full meal, if using.
Notes
- Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
- Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Grilled chicken adds smoky depth.
- Great for meal prep—stores and reheats well.
- Use leftover rice or rotisserie chicken for extra speed.
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