This Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty mix of sweet and savory! Tender chicken is coated in a yummy honey BBQ sauce and served over fluffy rice, making it a great meal for busy nights.
You won’t believe how quick this dish comes together—perfect for when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I love to top mine with some crunchy veggies for extra flavor! 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well here for easy cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Barbecue Sauce: Any store-bought BBQ sauce is fine, but feel free to use homemade if you have a favorite recipe. Just ensure it’s sweetened; a tangy sauce might change the flavor balance.
Honey: The honey adds sweetness to the sauce. You can swap it with maple syrup or agave if you’re looking for a vegan option, though it will slightly change the taste.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese is great for that melty finish, but you can also use mozzarella or skip the cheese altogether for a lighter dish.
Vegetables: I love adding steamed broccoli for color and nutrients. You can use any steamed or roasted veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for a crunchier texture.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking chicken in a skillet is simple, but there are a few key steps to get juicy, tender results.
- Always pat the chicken dry before cooking. This helps it sear nicely.
- Heat your oil properly in the skillet—medium-high heat works best. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s hot enough.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding the pan. This ensures even cooking. If you have a lot, cook in batches.
- Don’t stir it too much while cooking! Let it brown on one side first before flipping it to get a nice golden crust.
Keep an eye on the timing; it usually takes about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. This method gives a delicious result every time!
Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Base:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
For Toppings:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 cup steamed broccoli or mixed vegetables (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to cook, making the total time about 20 minutes! Quick and easy for a delightful dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, honey, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. This sweet and savory sauce will give your chicken a delicious flavor. Set this mixture aside while you cook the chicken.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While it heats up, season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’re looking for the chicken to be cooked through and lightly browned.
3. Add the Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring the dish together! Pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Stir everything to coat the chicken evenly. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens up and clings to the chicken nice and well.
4. Assemble Your Bowl:
To serve, take your cooked rice and add it to serving bowls. Top the rice with the honey BBQ chicken. If you have steamed broccoli or other vegetables, place them on the side for a pop of color and nutrition.
5. Finish with Toppings:
Finally, sprinkle your dish with shredded cheddar cheese if you like, along with chopped green onions and cilantro for freshness. This adds a lovely crunch and flavor!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your warm and tasty Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl! Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken; however, it’s important to completely thaw it first! Thaw frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water for a quicker option. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Cooked chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently in a skillet before serving, adding a splash of water or additional sauce to keep it moist.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover honey BBQ chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the rice from the chicken to keep everything fresh. You can reheat them together in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Can I Substitute Ingredients?
Definitely! You can swap chicken breasts for thighs or use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. If you’re looking for a vegan alternative, consider using cauliflower, tempeh, or chickpeas, and adjust the cooking time accordingly. For the sauce, try using your favorite BBQ sauce and adjust the sweetness with a different sweetener if desired.
