Description
This BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is a flavorful one-pot meal combining tender, seasoned chicken thighs or breasts with smoky BBQ sauce-infused rice and mixed vegetables. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish makes a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Rice and Sauce
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
- Drizzle of oil (for searing)
Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat to warm up before cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to build flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Add a small drizzle of oil to the hot pan. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Toast the Rice: In the same pan, add the uncooked long-grain rice. Stir frequently and toast for 1-2 minutes to bring out a nutty aroma.
- Add Liquids and Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey to create a flavorful cooking liquid.
- Return Chicken to Pan: Nestle the seared chicken pieces back into the rice mixture ensuring even distribution.
- Simmer the Rice and Chicken: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan and let everything simmer gently for 15 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice. Cover again.
- Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until the rice is tender, the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and the vegetables are warmed through.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh finish and serve hot.
Notes
- Use chicken thighs for juicier results; breasts work for a leaner option.
- Adjust BBQ sauce sweetness or spice level to your preference.
- Frozen mixed vegetables can be used directly—no need to thaw.
- If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder can be substituted.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internally for food safety.
- Letting the dish rest before serving allows flavors to meld and rice to set perfectly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: BBQ chicken, chicken rice recipe, one-pot meal, skillet chicken, easy dinner, smoky BBQ, dinner with vegetables
