Jump to Recipe Print RecipeFilling the kitchen with a warm, smoky scent, I sliced into the juicy chicken for my latest obsession: the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. This dish, with its delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, has quickly become our family’s go-to meal, perfect for busy weeknights when time is short but we crave something hearty and satisfying. What I love most is its flexibility—feel free to customize with your favorite toppings, from melted cheese to fresh cilantro. Plus, it’s marvelous for meal prep, making your busy weekdays feel just a little less hectic. Are you ready to dive into this delicious twist on a classic dish? Why is this recipe a must-try? Deliciously Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings to suit your preferences—whether you prefer fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, or a spicy kick with hot sauce. Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for anyone, even on a busy weeknight! Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch on the weekend for easy lunches throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge! Kids Love It: The sweet and savory combo is sure to please even picky eaters, making it a family favorite. Consider pairing with Garlic Parmesan Chicken for a fun dinner party! Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice that fills you up without weighing you down. Enjoy guilt-free! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless ensure tenderness and quick cooking. • Olive Oil – Great for sautéing; can be substituted with any neutral oil. For the Rice • Brown Rice – Provides fiber and a chewy texture; swap with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. • Water/Chicken Broth – Use broth for added flavor when cooking rice, though water is fine too. For the BBQ Sauce • BBQ Sauce – The star of the dish; choose your favorite brand to match your taste preference. • Honey – Enhances the BBQ flavor with sweetness; maple syrup is a delicious substitute. • Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami; tamari works well for a gluten-free option. For Seasoning • Garlic Powder – Offers essential background flavor; fresh garlic can be used instead for a punchier taste. • Onion Powder – Gives depth to the dish; substitute with fresh onion if preferred, adjusting quantity accordingly. • Salt and Pepper – Vital seasonings to elevate the overall taste; adjust per your liking. For Garnishing • Fresh Cilantro – Brings brightness; optional if you’re not a fan of the herb. • Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch; chives can work as an alternative. • Shredded Cheese (Optional) – Rich and creamy; easily omit for a dairy-free version. With these ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl that your whole family will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Step 1: Cook Rice Begin by rinsing 1 cup of brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving. Step 2: Cook Chicken While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. Add the chicken to the skillet and sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked through. Step 3: Prepare Sauce In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir everything together until the ingredients are well-blended and the mixture is smooth. Once the chicken is done cooking, remove it from the skillet and set it aside briefly while you add the sauce to the pan, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Step 4: Slice Chicken After allowing the skillet to cool for a moment, take the cooked chicken and slice it into strips using a sharp knife. This step is crucial for even sauce coating. Consider letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to retain its juices before slicing, ensuring each bite is tender and flavorful. Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and gently toss it in the simmering BBQ sauce. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and well-coated. This helps the flavors meld, creating a deliciously sticky texture for your Honey BBQ Chicken. Step 6: Assemble Bowls To assemble your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl, start by placing a generous scoop of the fluffy brown rice at the bottom of each bowl. Top the rice with the BBQ chicken and sauce mix, distributing evenly. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese, if desired, adding a burst of color and flavor to your meal. How to Store and Freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Fridge: Store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave until steaming hot. Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled servings in freezer-safe bags or containers. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of water or broth for moisture. Assembly Tips: To maintain freshness, keep garnishes like cilantro and cheese separate until ready to serve. Make Ahead Options These Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken, cook it, and toss it in the BBQ sauce up to 3 days in advance. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its juicy texture. The brown rice can also be cooked ahead and refrigerated for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Finish by assembling your bowls with your desired garnishes, and you’ll have a tasty, satisfying meal ready in no time! Expert Tips for the Best Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl • Check Chicken Temp: Use a meat thermometer to verify the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption and to prevent dryness. • Marinate for Flavor: If time allows, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for extra flavor; even 30 minutes can enhance taste. • Rice Variations: Consider using quick-cooking rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist on the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. • Stir for Coating: Ensure the sauce fully coats the chicken by stirring regularly during the simmer; it makes all the difference for flavor. • Customize Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Fresh veggies, crunchy nuts, or spicy sauces can elevate your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Variations Ready to take your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl to the next level? Here are some exciting ways to tweak this classic recipe, enticing your taste buds with fresh flavors! Cauliflower Rice: Swap out brown rice for cauliflower rice for a low-carb, veggie-packed alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to the chicken while cooking for a fiery twist that heat lovers will adore. Mixed Veggies: Toss in colorful veggies like bell peppers or broccoli while sautéing the chicken, making your bowl not only tastier but also more nutritious. Different Sauces: Experiment with teriyaki or spicy honey sauce instead of BBQ for a radically different flavor profile. It’s fun to see how diverse flavors can shine! Fruit Infusion: Incorporate pineapple or mango chunks in the sauce for a sweet tropical vibe that pairs beautifully with the BBQ flavors. Crispy Toppings: Crushed tortilla chips or crispy onion strings sprinkled on top add texture and a delightful crunch—perfect for texture lovers! Herb Swap: Try switching fresh cilantro for parsley or basil if you’re not a fan of cilantro; you’ll still get that fresh, vibrant touch. Cheesy Twist: Stir in some cream cheese or crème fraîche just before serving for a rich and creamy finish that elevates your dish to pure comfort food bliss. These variations allow you to adapt your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl to reflect your personal tastes and dietary needs. Need more family-friendly meal ideas? Check out my recipes for Honey Chicken Cutlets for a delicious twist or give my Honey Sriracha Salmon a go for something fishy yet fabulous! Happy cooking! What to Serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Create a meal that excites your taste buds and complements the comforting flavors of this delightful bowl. Garlic Bread: The buttery, crispy texture of garlic bread balances the savory sauce and adds a fragrant touch to your meal. Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch from tangy coleslaw enhances each bite, creating a beautiful contrast to the rich chicken. Steamed Broccoli: Tender green broccoli provides a nutritious and vibrant element to your plate, perfect for adding freshness. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or roasted corn brings sweetness and a pop of color, making for a delightful summer-inspired side. Quinoa Salad: The nutty flavor and hearty texture of quinoa salad creates a wholesome pairing; toss it with a lemon vinaigrette for brightness. Fruit Salad: A mix of sweet, juicy fruits can cleanse your palate and add a refreshing finish to the meal, complementing the BBQ flavors beautifully. Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink like sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can help refresh and cleanse your palate between bites. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, indulge in warm chocolate chip cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth after the savory main course. Iced Tea: A glass of sweetened iced tea provides a wonderful counterpoint with its light sweetness, making it a perfect pairing for family dinners. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and creamy texture can beautifully balance the smoky notes of your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness and quick cooking. They absorb the BBQ sauce beautifully and stay juicy throughout the cooking process. If preferred, you can also use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. How should I store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl? Store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best overall quality, reheat in the microwave until piping hot, ensuring the chicken reaches 165°F again. Can I freeze my Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl? Absolutely! To freeze, ensure the dish has cooled completely and then place it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a touch of broth to maintain moisture. What are some common troubleshooting tips if my chicken isn’t cooked through? If the chicken doesn’t reach the necessary 165°F, continue cooking it on medium heat, checking regularly to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Remember, slicing the chicken before ensuring it’s done can dry it out, so it’s best to wait until it’s fully cooked. Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? If you or anyone in your family has allergies, be cautious with BBQ sauce, as it may contain gluten or other allergens. Tamari is a great alternate for a gluten-free option. Also, if making for kids or pets, limit added seasonings and sauces to avoid spice sensitivity. What variations can I try to make this dish my own? Feel free to switch out the brown rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. You can also incorporate seasonal veggies like bell peppers or steamed broccoli during the chicken cooking phase for added crunch and nutrition. Plus, spices like cayenne or chili powder can give it a spicy twist! Sweet and Smoky Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Delight Enjoy this delicious Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl packed with sweet and smoky flavors for a perfect weeknight dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts Ensure tenderness and quick cooking.2 tablespoons olive oil Substitute with any neutral oil if needed.For the Rice1 cup brown rice Provides fiber; can swap with cauliflower rice for low-carb.2 cups water or chicken broth Use broth for added flavor.For the BBQ Sauce1 cup BBQ sauce Choose your favorite brand.2 tablespoons honey Maple syrup can be a delicious substitute.2 tablespoons soy sauce Tamari works for a gluten-free option.For Seasoning1 teaspoon garlic powder Substitute with fresh garlic for a punchier taste.1 teaspoon onion powder Adjust quantity if using fresh onion.to taste saltto taste pepperFor Garnishing1/4 cup fresh cilantro Optional.1/4 cup sliced green onions Chives can work as an alternative.1 cup shredded cheese Optional, can be omitted for dairy-free. Equipment Medium SaucepanLarge SkilletMixing bowlsharp knifeMeat thermometer Method Cooking InstructionsRinse 1 cup of brown rice under cold water until clear. In a medium saucepan, combine with 2 cups of water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes until tender.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet. Season 1 pound of chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and reaches 165°F.In a bowl, mix 1 cup BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, and 2 tablespoons soy sauce until smooth. Once chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and add sauce to the pan, bringing it to a gentle simmer.Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet, tossing in the simmering BBQ sauce for 2-3 minutes until well coated.To assemble, place a scoop of rice in each bowl, top with BBQ chicken and sauce, and garnish with cilantro, green onions, and shredded cheese if desired. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 56gProtein: 36gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 10mg NotesCheck chicken temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes prior to cooking. Store leftovers properly in airtight containers. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!