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Get ready for a flavorful treat with my Honey BBQ Chicken Rice! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken, sweet honey, and tangy BBQ sauce, all on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing friends, this dish packs a punch of taste without the hassle. Let’s dive into the simple steps to make this delightful meal that everyone will love!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The blend of honey and BBQ sauce creates a sweet and smoky flavor that is irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: With a marinade time of just 30 minutes, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts and served over jasmine rice, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the BBQ sauce to your preference, whether you like it smoky, spicy, or sweet.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
These main ingredients bring flavors together. Jasmine rice is soft and fragrant. The chicken adds protein and texture. Honey and BBQ sauce give sweetness and a smoky touch.
Marinade Components
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
The marinade makes the chicken tasty. Soy sauce adds saltiness. Sesame oil gives a nutty flavor. Garlic and onion powder enhance the taste. These ingredients work well together.
Garnishes
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds
Garnishes add color and crunch. Chopped green onions brighten the dish. Sesame seeds add a nutty bite. These simple touches make the meal look great.
I love how these ingredients combine. Each one plays a role in making Honey BBQ Chicken Rice delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
To start, you need to mix the marinade. In a bowl, combine the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until it blends well. Add the chicken breasts, making sure they are well coated. I suggest letting them marinate for at least 30 minutes. For a bigger flavor, let them sit overnight.
Cooking the Chicken
Next, preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, but keep the marinade for the sauce later. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat. Look for nice grill marks for a tasty finish.
Preparing the Sauce
Now, let’s make the sauce. Take the reserved marinade and pour it into a small saucepan. Heat it over medium heat and let it simmer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This will add a rich flavor to your dish.
Assembling the Dish
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices inside. Slice the chicken into strips. In a serving bowl, layer the cooked jasmine rice first. Then, place the sliced chicken on top.
Drizzling the Sauce
Generously drizzle the thickened honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice. This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that ties your dish together.
Garnishing
To finish, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. This adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor. For presentation, serve in deep bowls or plates. Arrange the rice neatly at the bottom, with chicken slices on top. Drizzle some extra sauce around the plate for a beautiful look.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Best Ingredients
– Selecting the right type of chicken: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook evenly and stay juicy. You can also use thighs for more flavor.
– Finding quality honey and BBQ sauce: Look for pure honey without added sugars. Choose a BBQ sauce that fits your taste. Smoky or spicy sauces work great here.
Cooking Techniques
– Alternatives to grilling or using a skillet: You can bake the chicken too. Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes. This keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.
– Ensuring chicken is cooked thoroughly: Always check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. A meat thermometer helps with this.
Enhancing Flavor
– Tips for marinating longer: For the best taste, marinate your chicken overnight. This allows the flavors to soak in deeply.
– Adding spices or herbs for extra taste: Try adding smoked paprika or fresh herbs. They can boost the dish’s flavor profile and make it more exciting.
Pro Tips
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Double the Sauce: If you love sauce, consider doubling the marinade recipe. This way, you’ll have extra for drizzling and dipping.
- Garnish for Visual Appeal: A sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds not only adds flavor but also makes the dish look more inviting.

Variations
Different Rice Options
You can switch jasmine rice for other types. Brown rice adds more fiber. White rice gives a classic taste. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. This choice is great for those watching carbs.
Sauce Alternatives
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ flavors. Try a sweet honey mustard or a spicy chipotle BBQ. You can also add heat with some cayenne pepper or chili flakes. For a sweeter touch, mix in some maple syrup or brown sugar.
Additional Proteins
Want to change up the protein? Use tofu for a vegetarian option. It absorbs flavors well and offers a great texture. You can also try shrimp. Cook them quickly on high heat for a delicious twist. Adjust cooking times for each protein to ensure they are fully cooked.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice fresh, first let it cool. Spread it out in a bowl to speed up cooling. Once cool, put it in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Seal it tight to avoid air getting in. This helps keep the flavors intact and the rice soft.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this dish for later use. Divide the rice and chicken into portions. Place them in freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove. Make sure it’s hot all the way through before serving.
Shelf Life
You can safely store leftovers in the fridge for about three to four days. If frozen, they last up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage. Look for changes in color or smell. If anything seems off, it’s best to throw it away. Enjoy your meal safely!
FAQs
Can I make this meal in advance?
Yes, you can make this meal in advance. Cook the chicken and rice ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days. You can also marinate the chicken overnight for more flavor. Just follow these tips:
– Cool the chicken before storing.
– Keep the cooked rice in a sealed container.
– Reheat everything gently before serving.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This recipe works well for meal prep. You can prepare a big batch and store it for the week. Here are the best practices:
– Cook the chicken and rice in bulk.
– Divide into single servings.
– Use clear containers for easy viewing.
– Add garnishes like green onions right before serving.
How can I make the dish spicier?
To spice up your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice, try these ideas:
– Add cayenne pepper to the marinade.
– Use a spicy BBQ sauce.
– Mix in some chopped jalapeños.
– Serve with hot sauce on the side.
What side dishes pair well with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice?
Many side dishes go well with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice. Try these:
– Steamed broccoli or green beans for crunch.
– A fresh garden salad for a light touch.
– Grilled corn on the cob for sweetness.
– Coleslaw for creaminess and texture.
This recipe for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is simple and delicious. You learned about key ingredients, like jasmine rice, chicken, honey, and BBQ sauce. We discussed marinating, cooking, and assembling this tasty dish. Using our tips, you can enhance flavors or try different proteins. Remember, storing leftovers properly keeps your meal fresh for longer. I hope you feel inspired to make this dish your own and enjoy sharing it with loved ones. Happy cookin
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
A delicious and flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken breasts served over jasmine rice, drizzled with a thick honey BBQ sauce.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 1 hour hr
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- to taste sesame seeds
In a bowl, mix the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible for more flavor.
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side or until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
In a small saucepan, add the reserved marinade and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips. In a serving bowl, layer the cooked jasmine rice at the bottom, then top with sliced chicken.
Generously drizzle the thickened honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and rice.
Finish by sprinkling chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top for an extra crunch and flavor.
For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Keyword BBQ, chicken, easy, honey, rice
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