Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is one of those dishes that makes everyone at the table go silent—just the sound of forks clinking and happy sighs. It’s sticky, sweet, smoky, and savory, all layered over fluffy rice that soaks up every delicious drop. I whipped this up one night with pantry staples and some leftover BBQ sauce, and it instantly became a regular request.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a comforting dinner, this dish checks every box: easy, flavorful, satisfying, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, Sticky Flavor: Sweet honey and tangy BBQ sauce make the perfect glaze.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, one skillet, and minimal prep.
- Versatile Protein: Chicken thighs or breasts work equally well.
- Perfect with Rice: The sauce-soaked rice is just as craveable as the chicken.
- Meal Prep Approved: Great for leftovers and packed lunches.
- Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You'll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
- ¼ cup honey
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Substitution Tip: Want it spicy? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Make the Honey BBQ Glaze
In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and slightly thickened.
3. Combine Chicken and Sauce
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until sticky and fully coated.
4. Serve
Spoon warm rice into bowls and top with the honey BBQ chicken. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serve immediately while warm with a side of steamed broccoli, corn, or a simple salad. It’s also great in wraps or over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Helpful Notes
- Use Leftover Rice: Day-old rice holds up better and soaks in more flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Just a few minutes of simmering is enough.
- Make it a Bowl: Add roasted veggies or avocado for a complete meal.
- Double the Sauce: Love it extra saucy? Increase honey and BBQ proportions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I grill the chicken instead?
Yes, just glaze it after grilling for a smoky char. - Is this dish very sweet?
It’s sweet-savory. Adjust the honey and BBQ to your taste. - Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes—just store sauce and chicken separately until reheating. - Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely—thaw fully and pat dry before cooking. - How do I make it spicier?
Add sriracha, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the glaze.
Final Thoughts
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a sticky-sweet, savory dream that’s as easy to make as it is to love. It’s comfort food with a little extra shine, perfect for weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Have you tried it with your favorite BBQ sauce blend? Share your variations—I’d love to hear your twist!
Honey Bbq Chicken Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups cooked rice white, brown, or jasmine
- ¼ cup honey
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce your favorite variety
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon oil vegetable or olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions or sesame seeds for garnish optional
- Substitution Tip: Want it spicy? Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze.
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Make the Honey BBQ Glaze
- In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in honey, BBQ sauce, and soy sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and slightly thickened.
Combine Chicken and Sauce
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the glaze. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until sticky and fully coated.
Serve
- Spoon warm rice into bowls and top with the honey BBQ chicken. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Use Leftover Rice: Day-old rice holds up better and soaks in more flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Sauce: Just a few minutes of simmering is enough.
- Make it a Bowl: Add roasted veggies or avocado for a complete meal.
- Double the Sauce: Love it extra saucy? Increase honey and BBQ proportions.
Leave a Reply