Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is a simple and satisfying meal that brings together tender chicken glazed with sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, all served over a bed of fluffy rice. The combination of sticky sauce and juicy chicken makes every bite a delicious mix of flavors and textures that is hard to resist.
I love making this dish when I want something quick but flavorful. One of my favorite tricks is to let the chicken soak up the sauce just a little longer before serving – it makes the flavors really pop. Plus, the honey adds a nice touch of natural sweetness that balances the BBQ tang perfectly.
I usually serve this with a side of steamed veggies or a fresh salad to keep things light and fresh. It’s great for a weeknight dinner because it’s easy to prepare yet feels like a special treat. Whenever I make this, it never lasts long on the table, and everyone asks for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I prefer thighs because they stay juicy and tender. You can use chicken breasts, but watch the cooking time so they don’t dry out.
BBQ Sauce: A smoky or hickory flavor adds depth, but if you like it sweeter, opt for a milder sauce or add a bit more honey.
Honey: This adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce thicken. Maple syrup or agave nectar can be good substitutes if you want a different sweetness.
Soy Sauce: It balances the sweetness with saltiness. For gluten-free, use tamari or coconut aminos instead.
Rice: Jasmine or long-grain rice works best for fluffy texture. Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be used for a healthier twist—just note cooking times will differ.
How Do You Get the Perfect Sticky Honey BBQ Glaze on the Chicken?
The secret is cooking the chicken until it’s nicely browned before adding the sauce. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat oil on medium-high and cook chicken pieces without crowding the pan, so they sear well.
- Once browned and cooked through, pour in the BBQ honey sauce and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken.
- This slow simmer lets the honey caramelize slightly, giving a delicious sticky glaze.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like using a non-stick or cast-iron skillet because it heats evenly and makes browning the chicken easier.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate measurement of sauces and honey so the flavors turn out perfect.
- Whisk or fork – helps mix the sauce ingredients smoothly and quickly.
- Serving spoon or tongs – for easily tossing the chicken in the sauce or serving it over rice.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for pork or shrimp for different meat options that cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
- Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or pineapple chunks to the skillet while cooking the chicken for extra sweetness and texture.
- Mix in a teaspoon of hot sauce or chili flakes if you like a spicy kick alongside the sweet BBQ flavor.
- Top with chopped cilantro or toasted sesame seeds for fresh or nutty flavor accents.
How to Make Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (preferably smoky or hickory flavor)
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
For Serving and Garnish:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or long-grain rice
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 25-30 minutes total. Preparing and cooking the chicken takes around 15-20 minutes, then about 5-10 minutes to simmer the sauce and reheat or cook your rice. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Honey BBQ Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything combines smoothly. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to brown nicely and be fully cooked inside.
3. Add the Sauce and Simmer:
Pour the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to cover all the chicken pieces evenly with the sauce. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer, stirring from time to time, for about 5 minutes. This lets the sauce thicken and become a sticky glaze on the chicken.
4. Prepare the Rice:
While your chicken simmers, warm up your cooked rice or prepare fresh rice according to package instructions. Fluffy rice works best to soak up the tasty sauce.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Place a generous amount of rice on each plate or a serving dish. Spoon the honey BBQ chicken on top. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and, if you like, a few sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice hot and enjoy the perfect harmony of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the quick thaw method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water. Pat the chicken dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken and sauce in advance, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce if the sauce has thickened too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. The rice may dry out slightly, so adding a little water before reheating helps keep it moist.
Can I Substitute the Rice?
Yes! Jasmine or long-grain rice works best, but you can swap in brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a healthier or gluten-free option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.