Honey BBQ Chicken Rice: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for Dinner

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a delightful dish that brings together the sweet and smoky flavors of honey barbecue sauce with tender chicken and fluffy rice. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food that has roots in American barbecue culture, where the love for grilling and bold flavors reign supreme. I remember the first time I tried this dish at a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite among my loved ones. The combination of juicy chicken, the sticky sweetness of honey, and the savory undertones of BBQ sauce creates a taste sensation that is hard to resist.

People adore Honey BBQ Chicken Rice for its incredible taste and texture. The chicken is marinated to perfection, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor, while the rice serves as a perfect canvas to soak up the delicious sauce. Not only is this dish satisfying, but it’s also incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of jasmine rice
• 4 cups of water or chicken broth
• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 cup of honey
• 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Rice

1. Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water. This helps to remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. I usually rinse it until the water runs clear. 2. In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water or chicken broth. If you want to add extra flavor, I recommend using chicken broth. 3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. 4. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 5-10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid. 5. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. I like to set it aside while I prepare the chicken.

Preparing the Honey BBQ Sauce

1. In a medium bowl, combine the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. 2. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick. I usually taste it at this point to adjust the seasoning if needed. 3. Set the sauce aside. This will be used to marinate the chicken and later as a glaze while cooking.

Marinating the Chicken

1. Take the boneless, skinless chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. 2. Pour about half of the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. 3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours or even overnight will enhance the flavor even more.

Cooking the Chicken

1. After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Preheat your grill or a large skillet over medium-high heat. If using a skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. 2. Once the grill or skillet is hot, add the marinated chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). 3. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the remaining honey BBQ sauce over the chicken. This will create a delicious glaze and enhance the flavor. 4. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy.

Assembling the Dish

1. While the chicken is resting, prepare your serving plates. I like to create a bed of fluffy jasmine rice on each plate. 2. Slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips or serve them whole, depending on your preference. 3. Place the chicken on top of the rice, and drizzle any remaining honey BBQ sauce over the chicken for extra flavor. 4. For a pop of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top of the dish. 5. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors!

Tips and Variations

– If you want to add some veggies to the dish, consider sautéing bell peppers, onions, or broccoli in the skillet after cooking the chicken. You can toss them with a bit of the honey BBQ sauce for added flavor. – For a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the honey BBQ sauce. – If you prefer a different protein, this recipe works well with pork or tofu as a substitute for chicken. – Left

Conclusion:

In summary, this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a burst of flavor and a touch of sweetness. The combination of tender chicken, sticky honey BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice creates a satisfying meal that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for seconds. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the honey BBQ sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables to the rice or swapping out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe a try and make it your own. Once you’ve tasted the delightful flavors, I would love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any modifications you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Print