There is something undeniably heartwarming about sitting down to a plate of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Growing up, this was the dish that brought everyone to the table with eager smiles. The sweet smell of barbecue sauce mingling with the cozy aroma of cooked rice filled the house, wrapping us all in a blanket of comfort. Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a beloved staple, perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even solo evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying. It beautifully combines the smoky flavors of barbecue with the gentle sweetness of honey, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and familiar. Whether enjoyed on a rainy day or as a quick fix for a busy weeknight, this dish has a way of turning any meal into a celebration.
The tradition of combining sweet and savory flavors dates back centuries, with various cultures using honey to enhance meats. Today, Honey BBQ Chicken Rice carries on that tradition in a way that feels modern, yet deeply connected to the comforting meals of our past.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors
- Family-friendly and customizable
- Great for meal prepping
- Comfort food that feels just a little bit special
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
HOW TO MAKE Honey BBQ Chicken Rice:
Making Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is like creating a little plate of joy. The steps are simple and satisfying, and the smell that fills your kitchen will make you want to dance.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package instructions. Fluffy, warm rice will be the perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced chicken breast and season it with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, whisk together the barbecue sauce and honey in a small bowl. Once the chicken is ready, pour the honey BBQ sauce over it. Stir well to coat all the pieces and let it simmer for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken beautifully.
4. Assemble:
Spoon the cooked rice into bowls or onto plates. Top with the sticky honey BBQ chicken. If you are feeling a little extra, sprinkle chopped green onions and shredded cheese over the top for added flavor and color.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot and fresh, perhaps with a crisp side salad or some roasted veggies if you want a little more green on your plate.
HELPFUL TIPS:
- Rice Options: You can use jasmine rice, basmati, or even brown rice for a heartier version.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce if you like a bit of heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Stir a little shredded cheese directly into the hot rice for a creamy, melty base.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it great for make-ahead lunches.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal (if using appropriate BBQ sauce)
NOTES:
You can easily swap the chicken breast for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier bite. Adjust the amount of honey based on how sweet you want your sauce to be.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
(Per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use a store-bought BBQ sauce?
Yes, any good-quality BBQ sauce will work. Choose one with flavors you love.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. This dish reheats very well and is perfect for meal prep.
What can I serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
A fresh garden salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans make great side dishes.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot, adding a splash of water if the rice has dried out a bit.
Related Recipes:
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Spicy Honey-Glazed Salmon Salad
- Teriyaki Chicken & Pineapple Foil Packets – Sweet, Savory & Juicy!
- Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
- Creamy Chicken Orzo
CONCLUSION:
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is the kind of recipe you will find yourself coming back to again and again. It is easy, packed with flavor, and filled with the kind of comfort that only a truly good meal can bring. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or a whole group of friends, this dish is sure to impress while keeping things cozy and delicious.
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Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Description
There is something undeniably heartwarming about sitting down to a plate of Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Growing up, this was the dish that brought everyone to the table with eager smiles. The sweet smell of barbecue sauce mingling with the cozy aroma of cooked rice filled the house, wrapping us all in a blanket of comfort. Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a beloved staple, perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even solo evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying. It beautifully combines the smoky flavors of barbecue with the gentle sweetness of honey, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and familiar. Whether enjoyed on a rainy day or as a quick fix for a busy weeknight, this dish has a way of turning any meal into a celebration.
The tradition of combining sweet and savory flavors dates back centuries, with various cultures using honey to enhance meats. Today, Honey BBQ Chicken Rice carries on that tradition in a way that feels modern, yet deeply connected to the comforting meals of our past.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (optional)
1/4 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice:
If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package instructions. Fluffy, warm rice will be the perfect base to soak up all that delicious sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the diced chicken breast and season it with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
3. Make the Sauce:
While the chicken cooks, whisk together the barbecue sauce and honey in a small bowl. Once the chicken is ready, pour the honey BBQ sauce over it. Stir well to coat all the pieces and let it simmer for another 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken beautifully.
4. Assemble:
Spoon the cooked rice into bowls or onto plates. Top with the sticky honey BBQ chicken. If you are feeling a little extra, sprinkle chopped green onions and shredded cheese over the top for added flavor and color.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot and fresh, perhaps with a crisp side salad or some roasted veggies if you want a little more green on your plate.
Notes
You can easily swap the chicken breast for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier bite. Adjust the amount of honey based on how sweet you want your sauce to be.