Quick & Healthy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice

Name: Quick & Healthy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups cooked rice; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Transform your weeknights with this quick and healthy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe! Juicy chicken thighs are coated in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, then served over fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Perfect for busy families and meal prep, this dish offers the ideal balance of flavor and nutrition, making dinner a breeze.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2025-12-09T00:49:51.160Z

This dish is a family favorite and a game changer for busy weeknights. The combination of sweet honey and tangy BBQ will have everyone asking for seconds!

A Perfect Weeknight Dinner

Finding time to cook during a busy week can be challenging, but this Quick & Healthy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice recipe is the ultimate solution. With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up a wholesome meal that satisfies both kids and adults. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table that requires little effort but delivers tremendous flavor.

The combination of juicy chicken thighs and sweet honey BBQ sauce is sure to be a hit, making it a family favorite. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also provides valuable nutrients from protein and fiber-rich rice, ensuring everyone gets the fuel they need to power through their evening activities.

Customization Options

One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify the flavors or ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences or dietary restrictions. For instance, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chili flakes or sriracha to the honey BBQ sauce. Alternatively, if you're looking for a healthier option, swap out the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to lower the carbohydrate content.

Adding vegetables is another excellent way to increase the nutritional value of this dish. Consider stirring in some steamed broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for added color and crunch. This not only enhances the dish visually but also packs in more vitamins and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Honey BBQ Chicken Rice dish is ideal for meal prepping due to its delicious flavors that hold up well over time. You can easily double the recipe to have enough portions for the week ahead. Simply store individual servings in airtight containers, making it convenient to grab a meal on busy days.

Reheating is a breeze; just pop it in the microwave, and you'll have a tasty dinner ready in minutes. With this recipe, you can simplify your weekly routine while ensuring that you and your family enjoy healthy, home-cooked meals without the hassle of daily cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

2 cups cooked rice
1/2 cup chopped green onions
Optional: sesame seeds for garnish

Mix and match the ingredients according to your taste!

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken thighs cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.

Add BBQ Sauce

Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey BBQ sauce over the chicken and let simmer for 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.

Serve

Serve the BBQ chicken over the cooked rice and top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Enjoy your quick and healthy meal!

Nutritional Benefits

This Quick & Healthy Honey BBQ Chicken Rice is not only delicious but also provides a well-balanced source of nutrition. Chicken thighs are rich in protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, while also helping to keep you feeling full. Additionally, the honey in the BBQ sauce adds natural sweetness without relying on refined sugars, making it a healthier alternative to traditional BBQ sauces.

The inclusion of rice provides a good source of carbohydrates, which are vital for energy. Furthermore, by adding green onions as a garnish, you introduce additional vitamins and minerals, boosting the nutritional profile of the meal without sacrificing flavor.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, proper storage is key to maintaining quality and flavor. Allow the chicken and rice to cool completely before sealing them in airtight containers. This will help keep moisture in while preventing freezer burn if you choose to freeze portions for later use. Stored in the refrigerator, the dish can last for up to three days without losing its deliciousness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the BBQ chicken on its own and preparing the rice fresh when you’re ready to eat. This approach keeps the texture of the rice perfect, ensuring a delightful meal every time you enjoy this easy dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice experience, consider pairing it with a light salad or steamed veggies. A simple coleslaw or cucumber salad can add a refreshing crunch and balance the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. You can also serve it with a side of edamame for an extra protein boost and a fun finger food.

For a more decadent touch, drizzle some extra honey BBQ sauce over the top just before serving, and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This quick addition can enhance the dish's visual appeal and add an extra layer of flavor that makes your meal feel special.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may cook faster.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The chicken and rice can be portioned and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.