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–+ servings
image of fresh chicken thighs white rice honey bbq sauce garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika olive oil chicken broth salt pepper green onions sesame seeds parsley arranged on white marble kitchen counter with clear glass bowls and rustic brown wooden kitchen sets under soft diffuse daylight
Benjamin

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Skillet

This easy one-pan honey BBQ chicken rice skillet is a budget-friendly weeknight hero, featuring juicy chicken thighs and fluffy rice drenched in a sticky sweet and smoky glaze, ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 tbsp Chicken Thighs
  • 1 tsp Olive Oil
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt
  • 1 cup Black Pepper rinsed
  • 1.5 cups White Rice (long-grain or Basmati) low-sodium
  • 1 tbsp Chicken Broth optional
  • 1/2 cup Worcestershire Sauce
  • 3 tbsp BBQ Sauce
  • Honey chopped, for garnish
  • Fresh Green Onions optional, for garnish
  • Sesame Seeds optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe skillet (cast iron preferred)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon
  • - Whisk

Method
 

Prep the Chicken and Pan
  1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces in batches (if needed) for 2-3 minutes per side until golden but not fully cooked. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
  2. If the pan is dry, add a little more olive oil. Add the rinsed white rice to the skillet and toast, stirring for about 1 minute to enhance flavor.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon. Bring to a simmer.
  4. Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the rice and broth mixture, ensuring the rice is submerged and chicken is mostly on top. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and honey. After simmering, brush the glaze evenly over the chicken. Preheat the broiler to high and place the uncovered skillet under it for 1-3 minutes until the glaze is bubbly and caramelized—watch closely to avoid burning.
  6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 18g

Notes

For the best results, use chicken thighs for juiciness and rinse the rice thoroughly. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth in the microwave or on the stovetop. Variations: Use chicken breasts if preferred, but reduce simmering time. Add frozen veggies like peas and carrots during the liquid step for extra nutrition.
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