Honey BBQ Chicken Rice 

This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, sweet honey, and smoky BBQ sauce, all cooked with perfectly seasoned rice. It's an ideal meal for busy nights, offering bold flavors and ease without compromising on taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a touch of freshness. Customize with veggies or try different proteins like shrimp or tofu. Perfect for anyone craving a wholesome yet effortless meal!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed

• 2 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite variety)

• ¼ cup honey

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh – peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers work well)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Sear the Chicken:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

   • Season the chicken pieces with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

   • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes.

   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Toast the Rice:

   • In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.

   • Add the rinsed rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Pour in the chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey.

   • Stir to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.

   • Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.

4. Simmer:

   • Bring the mixture to a simmer.

   • Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Vegetables:

   • During the last 5 minutes of cooking, scatter the mixed vegetables over the rice without stirring.

   • Cover and allow the residual heat to steam the vegetables until tender.

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

   • Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley, if desired.

   • Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal

• Protein: 28 g

• Fat: 18 g

• Carbohydrates: 35 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 12 g

• Sodium: 620 mg