Jump to Recipe Print RecipeIn the midst of a whirlwind week, when the thought of takeout threatens to take over my kitchen, I find solace in my Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. This vibrant dish not only whisks away the fast food blues but also brings warmth and joy to the dinner table. Imagine tender chicken, seared to perfection, slathered in rich, smoky BBQ sauce with a touch of honey’s sweet embrace, all resting on a bed of fluffy brown rice. It’s an effortless solution for busy nights and a delightful canvas for your favorite toppings, from creamy cheese to fresh cilantro. Plus, this meal is a fantastic way to keep your weeknight routine healthy and flavorful, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser. When was the last time a dinner brought everyone together like this? Let’s dive into the deliciousness! What makes this bowl so irresistible? Flavorful Fusion: The combination of honey and smoky BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering blend that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Endless Customization: With room for your favorite toppings — think shredded cheese or avocado slices — you can tailor each bowl to fit your mood or dietary needs. Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes, saving you time and stress while cooking. High-Quality Protein: Packed with tender chicken and wholesome brown rice, this bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious, making it a great choice for meal prep or a quick bite. Family-Friendly: Kids will love the sweet and savory flavors, ensuring you have a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy! Pair it with a fresh side salad or explore more variations like my Chili Chicken Bowl for an even more delightful dinner experience! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Ingredients For the Chicken Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the dish, you can substitute with turkey or tofu to cater to dietary preferences. Olive Oil – Essential for sautéing chicken, adds a touch of richness to the flavor. Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall taste; fresh garlic works well too if you prefer a bolder flavor. Onion Powder – Adds aroma and depth; feel free to use fresh chopped onions as an alternative. Salt and Pepper – Fundamental seasonings to elevate the taste of your chicken. For the Rice Base Brown Rice – The hearty foundation of this bowl, providing fiber and nutrients; consider cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Water or Chicken Broth – Used for cooking the rice; broth will enhance its flavor beautifully. For the BBQ Sauce Mixture BBQ Sauce – The flavorful backbone of the dish; opt for your favorite brand or try a homemade version. Honey – Adds a delightful sweetness to counterbalance the BBQ’s tang; feel free to substitute with maple syrup for a twist. Soy Sauce – Provides umami depth; use tamari if you’re looking for a gluten-free option. For Garnishing Fresh Cilantro – Gives a refreshing finish and vibrant color; omit if you’re not a fan. Sliced Green Onions – Adds a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor; completely optional but recommended! Shredded Cheese – An indulgent touch for creaminess; choose your favorite blend to make it even better. Dive into a bowl of flavors with this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl, and let your culinary creativity shine through customizable toppings! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Step 1: Cook the Rice Begin by rinsing 1 cup of brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water or chicken broth, bringing it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 40 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pat dry 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet and let it rest. Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce until fully combined and smooth. This sweet and tangy sauce will be the crowning glory of your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl, adding depth and richness to the dish. Step 4: Slice the Chicken After the chicken has rested for a few minutes, carefully slice it into strips to allow for easier serving. Ensuring the chicken remains juicy, you’ll want to cut against the grain. Set the sliced chicken aside, ready to be added to your flavorful sauce. Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in the prepared BBQ sauce mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add the sliced chicken to the skillet, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sticky, luscious sauce. Step 6: Serve the Rice Bowls Once everything is cooked and combined, it’s time to assemble your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. In bowls, begin layering fluffy brown rice as the base, followed by the saucy chicken. Feel free to get creative with optional garnishes—sprinkle fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and shredded cheese for extra flavor and texture, making each bowl uniquely yours! What to Serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl There’s something special about creating a complete meal that adds comfort to a busy weeknight dinner, and these pairings will complement the flavors perfectly. Creamy Coleslaw: This refreshing side adds a crunchy texture and creaminess that counterbalances the savory BBQ chicken. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making your meal feel indulgent and filling. Roasted Vegetables: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness and caramelization in veggies like bell peppers or zucchini, enhancing the flavor profile of your dish. Crisp Garden Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds freshness and a burst of color, balancing the richness of the honey BBQ sauce. Cilantro Lime Rice: Elevate your bowl with a twist by swapping out brown rice for this zesty alternative, which pairs wonderfully with the sweet and smoky chicken. Peach Iced Tea: This refreshing drink provides a hint of sweetness that enhances the meal, offering a delightful match to your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl. Each of these accompaniments transforms your main dish into a delightful feast, full of textures and flavors that dance on your palate! Expert Tips for the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Rest the Chicken: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a couple of minutes before slicing; this helps retain moisture and keeps it juicy. Adjust Cooking Times: If you opt for cauliflower rice instead of brown rice, remember it cooks much faster—check for doneness after 5-7 minutes. Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding chili powder or cayenne to the BBQ sauce for a flavorful heat that complements the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl beautifully. Mix and Match Toppings: Get creative with garnishes! Add avocado, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Storage Smart: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to enjoy it just as delicious as when it was freshly made! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delightful bowl to suit your tastes. Quinoa Base: Swap brown rice for quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. It adds a beautiful texture and nuttiness to the bowl. Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of brown rice for a lighter version. It cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors beautifully! Extra Veggies: Add steamed broccoli or sautéed bell peppers for added nutrients. These vibrant veggies not only boost flavor but also enhance the dish’s visual appeal. Flavorful Sauce Boost: Mix in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the BBQ sauce for a tangy twist. This subtle change can elevate the entire flavor profile! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of cayenne for some heat. This fiery addition will tantalize your taste buds and elevate your meal experience. Creamy Touch: Top your bowl with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This luscious addition balances the sweet and spicy elements perfectly. Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or basil instead of cilantro for a fresh take. Each herb brings its own unique flair to the dish! Garnish Delight: Try adding avocado slices for creaminess or toasted sesame seeds for an unexpected crunch. These toppings can truly transform your bowl into a delightful masterpiece! Don’t miss out on trying this versatile dish, and explore delicious variations like my Thai Chicken Soup or Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders for more tasty inspiration! Make Ahead Options These Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can marinate and cook the chicken up to 3 days in advance—just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its tenderness. Additionally, prepare the rice ahead of time, as it refrigerates well for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of BBQ sauce to brings back its amazing flavor, and serve it over freshly warmed rice. This way, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Fridge: Keep your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving to restore its delicious flavors. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken and sauce separately from the rice in airtight containers. It can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Reheating: Ensure the chicken and rice are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating. You can add a splash of water or broth while reheating to maintain moisture. Assembly: When ready to serve after freezing, simply reheat the components and assemble with your favorite toppings for a fresh meal! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe FAQs What type of chicken is best for this recipe? Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy and tender results. However, you can also use turkey or tofu for a healthier alternative or to accommodate dietary preferences. How should I store leftover Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl? Very! You can store this recipe in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to enjoy it just as delicious as when it was first made. Can I freeze the Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl? Absolutely! To freeze, separate the chicken and sauce from the rice. Store the chicken and sauce in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and reheat everything to 165°F for safety. What if my BBQ sauce is too sweet? It’s easy to adjust! If your barbeque sauce turns out too sweet, you can mix in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors. Stir it well and taste as you go until it reaches your desired flavor. Are there gluten-free options for this recipe? Definitely! Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free. Plus, choosing a gluten-free BBQ sauce will ensure the whole dish is suitable for anyone with gluten sensitivities. How do I customize toppings for this bowl? The more the merrier! Start with a base of chopped fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for a burst of flavor. Consider adding avocado slices, shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or even roasted vegetables for added nutrition and personality to your bowl! Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl for a Flavorful Family Meal Enjoy a Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl, a delicious family meal brimming with tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and brown rice for a healthy weeknight dish. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: ChickenCuisine: AmericanCalories: 550 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken1 pound Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Can substitute with turkey or tofu.2 tablespoons Olive Oil For sautéing.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic works well too.1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh chopped onions can be used.to taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Rice Base1 cup Brown Rice Consider cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.2 cups Water or Chicken BrothFor the BBQ Sauce Mixture½ cup BBQ Sauce Use your favorite brand.2 tablespoons Honey Can substitute with maple syrup.1 tablespoon Soy Sauce Use tamari for gluten-free.For Garnishingto taste Fresh Cilantro Optional.to taste Sliced Green Onions Optional.to taste Shredded Cheese Choose your favorite blend. Equipment SaucepanSkilletMixing BowlServing Bowls Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsRinse the brown rice under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed rice and water or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 40 minutes.Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let it rest.In a small bowl, whisk BBQ sauce, honey, and soy sauce together until smooth.Slice the rested chicken into strips.In the same skillet, add BBQ sauce mixture, simmer, then add sliced chicken and coat with sauce.Serve the rice bowls with brown rice as the base, topped with chicken and optional garnishes. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 62gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 2IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 8mg NotesThis dish can be customized with various toppings and is perfect for meal prepping. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
