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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Servings 4 Servings

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 to 3 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce

Optional garnish:

  • green onions chopped
  • sesame seeds

Instructions
 

  • Cook the rice according to package instructions and set it aside once done. Keep it covered so it stays warm.
  • Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly golden.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, honey, and soy sauce.
  • Pour the sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes sticky.
  • Serve the honey BBQ chicken over a bed of warm rice. Garnish if desired and serve immediately.

Notes

Tips for Making the Best Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Use chicken thighs if you want extra juicy results. They stay tender even if slightly overcooked.
Choose a smoky barbecue sauce for deeper flavor, especially if you like bold, savory dishes.
If the sauce thickens too quickly, add a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen it up.
Let the sauce simmer gently. High heat can cause the honey to burn instead of caramelize.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Use brown rice, jasmine rice, or cauliflower rice depending on your preference.
Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for extra texture and nutrition.
Make it spicy by adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Use sugar-free honey or barbecue sauce if you are watching sugar intake.
Keyword BBQ, Chicken, Comforting, Dinner, Honey, Quick, Savory