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 summer cookout, and it instantly became a favorite in my household.

People adore Honey BBQ Chicken Rice for its perfect balance of taste and texture. The juicy chicken, coated in a sticky, sweet glaze, pairs beautifully with the soft, aromatic rice, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Join me as we explore this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of jasmine rice
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup of honey
• 1 cup of BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: sliced green onions for garnish

Preparing the Chicken Marinade

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended. This will be our marinade and sauce for the chicken. 2. Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, I recommend letting it sit for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor.

Preparing the Rice

3. While the chicken is marinating, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. 4. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth. If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use water, but broth adds a richer flavor. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. 5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid.

Cooking the Chicken

6. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, make sure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking. 7. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Discard the leftover marinade, as it has been in contact with raw chicken. 8. Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing nice grill marks to form. 9. Flip the chicken and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you prefer, you can baste the chicken with some fresh marinade during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor. 10. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender and juicy.

Assembling the Dish

11. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it among serving plates. 12. Slice the grilled chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and place them on top of the rice. 13. Drizzle any remaining BBQ sauce over the chicken for added flavor. If you like a little extra sweetness, you can drizzle a bit more honey on top as well. 14. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

15. Serve the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad. The sweetness of the honey and the smokiness of the BBQ sauce complement the rice beautifully, making it a satisfying meal. 16. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.

Tips for Success

17. For a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the marinade. 18. If you want to make this dish even more nutritious, feel free to add some sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn to the rice while it cooks. 19. Experiment with different types of rice! Brown rice or quinoa can be great alternatives, but remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly. 20. If you’re

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 sure to please both family and friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a delightful twist, or add in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli to make it even more nutritious. I encourage you to give this recipe a go and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Whether you’re serving it up for a casual family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, this dish is bound to be a hit. Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try—I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice that will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking! Print