This Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is cooked in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, all served over fluffy rice—yum!
I love how quick it comes together! It’s perfect for busy nights when I want something delicious without the fuss. Plus, leftovers are great for lunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken breasts are a lean choice, but you can use thighs for more flavor and tenderness. If you are looking for a vegetarian option, tofu or chickpeas work well as substitutes.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce here—sweet, tangy, or smoky works great! If you’re out of BBQ sauce, a mix of ketchup and soy sauce with a little sugar can work in a pinch.
Honey: Honey adds a natural sweetness, but maple syrup or agave syrup can be used if you prefer. You can also reduce the honey for a less sweet flavor if desired.
Cheese: Cheddar cheese enhances the creamy texture. However, Monterey Jack or pepper jack can make a great alternative for a bit of spice. Skip the cheese for a dairy-free version!
Rice: I usually opt for jasmine or basmati rice for this dish, but brown rice or quinoa are fantastic healthful alternatives that work well.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly is essential for a great dish. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cut chicken into evenly sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot before adding chicken — this helps seal in juices.
- Cook the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F(75°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one!
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet as this can steam the chicken instead of browning it. Cook in batches if necessary.
Following these tips will ensure you have juicy and fully-cooked chicken every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bowl:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati preferred)
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking, totaling about 25 minutes. It’s a quick and tasty dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the barbecue sauce and honey; mix well until smooth. Set this aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Heat the Skillet:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. This will help cook the chicken quickly and evenly.
3. Season the Chicken:
While the skillet is heating, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder if you’re using it. This seasoning adds fantastic flavor!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
5. Add the Sauce:
Pour the honey BBQ sauce mixture over the chicken in the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken completely in the sauce, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Assemble the Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice among your serving bowls. Spoon the honey BBQ chicken over the rice generously.
7. Add Toppings:
If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and allow it to melt slightly from the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped cilantro for freshness.
8. Serve:
Serve the bowls with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your quick and easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl!
This dish is delicious and can be customized to your taste. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking! Thaw frozen chicken in the fridge overnight or in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re out of BBQ sauce, you can create a similar flavor by mixing ketchup with a splash of vinegar, a little brown sugar, and some Worcestershire sauce. Adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your taste!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist if necessary.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just heat them up when you’re ready to serve, and cook the rice fresh for the best texture!
