One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken is the ultimate solution for busy weeknights, offering a delicious mix of tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and perfectly cooked rice—all in one pan. This dish not only simplifies cleanup but also delivers a burst of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, this recipe has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken is not just about convenience; it’s packed with benefits. Here are a few reasons you’ll adore this dish:

Fast cooking time—ready in about 35 minutes!
Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
Rich flavors from the honey BBQ sauce that glaze the chicken beautifully.
Flexibility to use chicken thighs or breasts based on your preference.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
Perfect for meal prep, making it a great One-Pan Chicken Recipe for busy nights.

With its healthy honey BBQ chicken dish nature, you’ll fall in love with this easy BBQ chicken dinner!

Ingredients for One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

Gather these items:

Boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (honey or smoky style)
2 tablespoons honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking oil of choice)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables such as mixed peas, corn, or bell peppers (optional)
Green onions or parsley, for garnish

How to Make One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces; season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (2–3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook another minute.
Step 4: Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it briefly (about a minute) so it picks up flavor.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 6: Return the seared chicken to the skillet, then stir in BBQ sauce (and honey, if using). Mix gently to combine.
Step 7: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (about 18–20 minutes).
Step 8: Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, let it rest off the heat for about 5 minutes, then garnish and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or chicken breasts if preferred.
Add vegetables like bell pepper, peas, or corn in step 3 or 4 for added color and nutrition.
Use brown rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Try different BBQ sauce flavors (honey, smoky, spicy) to change the taste profile.
Garnish with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) or green onions to brighten it.

Best Ways to Serve One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

This delicious Honey BBQ Chicken for Dinner can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:

Pair it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Serve alongside steamed vegetables for added nutrition.
Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store and Reheat One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

To store, keep the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water, and microwave or heat on the stovetop covered until warmed through. For best texture, reheat gently over medium heat so the rice doesn’t dry out.

Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

What’s the secret to perfect One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken?

The secret lies in properly searing the chicken to lock in the juices and using quality BBQ sauce that complements the honey for a great glaze.

Can I make One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. It reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken?

To avoid undercooked rice, ensure you have enough liquid and keep the pan covered while simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Variations of One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Use plant-based protein for a vegan version.
Add spices like cayenne or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Include different veggies based on seasonal availability.
Try various BBQ sauce flavors for a twist on the classic.

One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken: Your Favorite Dinner Solution

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This One-Pan Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple yet flavorful meal that combines tender chicken, smoky sweet sauce, and well-seasoned rice, all cooked together effortlessly.

Author: Robert
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

Boneless, skinless chicken (thighs or breasts)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (honey or smoky style)
2 tablespoons honey (optional, for extra sweetness)
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking oil of choice)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables such as mixed peas, corn, or bell peppers (optional)
Green onions or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces; season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (2–3 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook another minute.
Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it briefly (about a minute) so it picks up flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Return the seared chicken to the skillet, then stir in BBQ sauce (and honey, if using). Mix gently to combine.
Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (about 18–20 minutes).
Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, let it rest off the heat for about 5 minutes, then garnish and serve.

Notes

Use chicken thighs for extra juiciness or chicken breasts if preferred.
Add vegetables like bell pepper, peas, or corn in step 3 or 4 for added color and nutrition.
Use brown rice, but increase the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
Try different BBQ sauce flavors (honey, smoky, spicy) to change the taste profile.
Garnish with fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) or green onions to brighten it.