Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a comforting dish that combines tender, juicy chicken coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce served over a bed of fluffy rice. The perfect mix of sticky, flavorful sauce and soft, warm rice makes every bite satisfying and full of heartiness.
I love making this dish when I want something simple but tasty that the whole family will enjoy. The honey in the BBQ sauce adds a gentle sweetness that balances the smokiness perfectly, and it’s so easy to throw together on a busy weeknight. I like to cook the chicken until it’s caramelized just right, so every piece is packed with flavor.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh green salad to add a pop of color and freshness. It’s the kind of meal that feels both homey and special without a lot of fuss. Whenever I make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, it always brings smiles around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts work well for this dish. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs—they stay juicier and add more flavor but may take a bit longer to cook.
Brown rice: Brown rice adds nuttiness and fiber. You can swap it for white rice if you want a softer, quicker-cooking grain. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are good low-carb alternatives, too.
Honey BBQ sauce: The combo of BBQ sauce and honey is what gives this dish its sweet and tangy touch. For a healthier option, look for low-sugar BBQ sauces, or make your own with ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices.
Smoked paprika: This is optional but adds a nice smoky depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder works fine.
Broccoli and green onions: They bring color and freshness. You can replace broccoli with any steamed or roasted veggies like green beans, snap peas, or bell peppers.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Glazed with Honey BBQ Sauce?
Getting the chicken nicely coated and slightly caramelized with the sauce is key.
- Cook the chicken first on medium-high heat to get a golden brown outside. This builds flavor.
- Lower the heat before adding the sauce so it thickens slowly without burning.
- Use a spoon to keep coating the chicken with sauce while it simmers for 2-3 minutes—this creates that sticky, tasty glaze.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing keeps it juicy inside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium saucepan – I use this to cook the rice evenly so it’s tender and fluffy.
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the chicken and letting it soak up that tasty sauce.
- Small mixing bowl – handy for mixing the honey BBQ sauce ingredients quickly.
- Steamer basket or microwave-safe dish – for steaming broccoli effortlessly.
- Cutting board and knife – for slicing the chicken and green onions cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for leftover pulled pork or tofu for a different protein boost.
- Mix in roasted sweet potatoes or grilled peppers for extra veggies and color.
- Use regular or spicy BBQ sauce instead of honey BBQ for a smoky or kick-flavored twist.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce if you like some heat.
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
For the Honey BBQ Sauce:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
For the Sides and Garnish:
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steamed)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 50 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping and cooking the chicken and sauce, and 40-45 minutes cooking the brown rice. You can steam the broccoli while the chicken cooks so everything is ready together.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Brown Rice:
Rinse the brown rice well under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it rest covered.
2. Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce:
While the rice cooks, mix together the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
4. Add the Sauce and Glaze the Chicken:
Turn the heat down to medium-low and pour the prepared honey BBQ sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Spoon the sauce over the chicken as it cooks for another 2-3 minutes. This helps thicken the sauce and glaze the chicken with a delicious sticky coating.
5. Slice and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice it into strips. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it into bowls. Arrange the sliced chicken on top.
6. Add Broccoli and Garnish:
Steam the broccoli florets until tender and place them beside the chicken and rice. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the dish for a fresh, colorful finish.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot and enjoy the perfect balance of sweet, tangy sauce with tender chicken and fluffy rice!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat dry before seasoning to get a nice sear.
Can I Substitute White Rice or Another Grain?
Absolutely! White rice cooks faster and works well here. You can also use quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even couscous for a different texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the rice seems dry.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix the honey BBQ sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick stir before pouring it over the chicken.