This all-in-one smoky BBQ chicken and rice dish brings together tender chicken, sweet and tangy BBQ flavor, and colorful veggies in a single skillet. It’s a weeknight winner—simple, satisfying, and packed with Southern-style comfort.
Servings & Timing
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Tags: High-Protein, One-Pot, Meal Prep Friendly
📝 Ingredients
→ Main Ingredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
½ cup BBQ sauce (mesquite flavor recommended)
¼ cup honey
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh—peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers)
2 tbsp vegetable or olive oil, divided
→ Seasonings
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt (or to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper (or to taste)
→ Garnish (Optional)
2–3 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Extra drizzle of BBQ sauce
🔪 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep Ingredients
Cut chicken into bite-sized chunks.
Mix all spices in a small bowl.
Rinse rice thoroughly and drain.
2️⃣ Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Season chicken with half the spice mix.
Sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Toast the Rice
Add remaining oil and rice to the same skillet.
Stir in remaining spices. Toast for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4️⃣ Simmer with Sauce
Add chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey.
Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pan.
Bring to a simmer.
5️⃣ Combine & Cook
Nestle chicken into rice mixture.
Cover and simmer on low for 15 minutes—don’t lift the lid!
6️⃣ Add Veggies
Scatter mixed vegetables on top.
Cover and cook for 5 more minutes.
7️⃣ Rest & Serve
Remove from heat. Let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
Fluff gently and fold in veggies.
Garnish with green onions, parsley, and a BBQ drizzle.
💡 Notes & Tips
No stirring needed! Lifting the lid too early can mess up the rice texture.
Make it lighter: Use chicken breast and a low-sugar BBQ sauce.
Flavor boost: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime at the end for brightness.
📸 Step-by-Step Guide
(Photos to include: seasoned chicken → toasted rice → simmering with sauce → final skillet dish)
Pro Tip: This dish makes excellent leftovers. The flavor deepens overnight!
🥄 Ingredient Insights & Swaps
Why it works:
BBQ sauce & honey: A smoky-sweet glaze that infuses the rice and chicken.
Toasted rice: Adds nutty depth.
Vegetables: Brighten up the richness.
Easy swaps:
Use brown rice (increase broth and cook time by 10–15 min).
Try different veggies like zucchini or green beans.
Use rotisserie chicken (skip searing, add with veggies).
🎨 Flavor Variations & Serving Ideas
Flavor Boosters:
Add chipotle powder for smoky heat.
Mix in black beans for added fiber and protein (adds W-W points).
What to serve with it:
A crisp coleslaw for contrast.
Cornbread muffins or grilled corn on the cob.
A side salad with citrus vinaigrette.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in single portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave or warm on the stove with a splash of broth.
🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (per serving, 4 total)**
Calories: ~450 kcal | Protein: ~28g | Carbs: ~40g | Fat: ~20g
W-W Points (based on chicken breast, low-sugar BBQ sauce, and olive oil):
➡️ 6 Points
With chicken thighs and standard BBQ sauce:
➡️ 8 Points
Points will vary based on the BBQ sauce, oil, and chicken cut used. For best accuracy, input your exact ingredients into the W-W app.
Allergens: None inherently. Check BBQ sauce label for additives.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
A: Yes! Use the sauté function for steps 1–3, then pressure cook on high for 8 minutes with a natural release.
Q: Is this spicy?
A: Only mildly smoky. To add heat, include chili flakes or hot BBQ sauce.
Q: Can I use leftover rice?
A: Not for this one—cooking the rice in broth absorbs all that BBQ flavor.
📝 The Story Behind the Recipe
This recipe was inspired by a craving for BBQ chicken and rice—but without firing up the grill. It’s my go-to for nights when I want comfort food with bold flavor but need it all in one pot and under an hour. My family loves the sweet heat, and I love the easy cleanup.
🗨️ Let’s Chat!
Did you make this BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet? Tag me or drop a comment with your twist! I’d love to hear if you spiced it up or added your favorite veggies!