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 savory flavors of honey and barbecue sauce, perfectly complementing 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 Honey BBQ Chicken Rice at a family gathering, and it quickly became a favorite among my loved ones.

What makes Honey BBQ Chicken Rice so irresistible is its harmonious blend of taste and texture. The juicy chicken, coated in a sticky honey BBQ glaze, pairs beautifully with the soft, aromatic rice, creating a satisfying dish that is both filling and comforting. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of cooked white rice
• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup of honey
• 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground ginger, black pepper, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. This will be our delicious marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. 2. Take the chicken thighs and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. 3. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, marinating for 2-4 hours or even overnight will enhance the flavor even more.

Cooking the Chicken

4. After marinating, preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure to oil the grates lightly to prevent sticking. 5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Reserve the leftover marinade for later use. 6. Place the chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing those beautiful grill marks to form. 7. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you have a meat thermometer, this is a great time to use it! 8. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender.

Preparing the Rice

9. While the chicken is resting, prepare the rice. If you haven’t cooked the rice yet, you can do so now. I usually use a rice cooker for perfectly fluffy rice, but you can also cook it on the stovetop. 10. To cook rice on the stovetop, rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. 11. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil over high heat. 12. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. 13. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Combining the Ingredients

14. While the rice is resting, take the reserved marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will create a delicious sauce to drizzle over the chicken and rice. 15. Slice the grilled chicken thighs into strips or bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier to serve and eat. 16. In a large serving bowl or individual plates, start by placing a generous scoop of the fluffy white rice as the base. 17. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the rice, and then drizzle the thickened honey BBQ sauce over the chicken. Don’t be shy with the sauce; it adds so much flavor!

Garnishing and Serving

18. To finish off the dish, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh crunch and a pop of color. If you like, you can also add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and texture. 19. Serve the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice warm, and enjoy it with your favorite side dishes or a fresh salad. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a casual gathering with friends. 20. If you have leftovers, store

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 vegetarian option. 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 tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the joy of cooking together! Print