Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Family Favorite
There’s something magical about a meal that comes together in a single skillet—less cleanup, more flavor, and that cozy feeling of comfort food without the fuss. This Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is exactly that kind of dish. Imagine juicy chicken thighs glazed in a sticky-sweet BBQ sauce, nestled into fluffy rice that soaks up all those smoky, tangy flavors. It’s the kind of dinner that makes everyone at the table pause mid-bite to say, “Wow, this is good.”
As a mom of two picky eaters (who somehow transform into food critics at dinnertime), I’m always on the hunt for recipes that are quick, adaptable, and packed with flavor. This skillet meal checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s forgiving—swap the veggies, adjust the spice level, or use whatever BBQ sauce you have lurking in your fridge. It’s also a great way to repurpose leftover rice, which I wrote about here. Trust me, this dish is about to become your weeknight MVP.
Why You’ll Love This Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation:
- One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes = more happiness.
- Kid-approved: The sweet BBQ sauce is a universal crowd-pleaser.
- Meal-prep friendly: Tastes even better as leftovers.
- Customizable: Add bell peppers, black beans, or a sprinkle of cheese.
How to Make Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (I love Stubbs or Sweet Baby Ray’s)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sear the chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika, then sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add onion and garlic, cooking until soft (about 3 minutes).
- Add rice and liquids: Stir in rice, then pour in chicken broth and BBQ sauce. Scrape up any browned bits—that’s flavor gold!
- Simmer and finish: Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
Want to take this dish to the next level? Here’s how:
- For extra smokiness, add a pinch of cumin or a dash of liquid smoke.
- Short on time? Use pre-cooked rice and reduce the broth to ½ cup.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color.
Fun story: The first time I made this, my husband (who claims he “doesn’t like sweet dinners”) went back for thirds. Now it’s on our monthly meal plan—proof that even the skeptics can’t resist BBQ-glazed chicken!
Pairing Suggestions
Serve this skillet with a simple side salad (try my 5-Minute Avocado Salad) or roasted veggies. A cold beer or sparkling lemonade balances the sweetness perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken for this BBQ chicken skillet?
Yes! Thaw it first for even cooking, or add 5–7 extra minutes to the simmer time.
What’s the best rice for skillet meals?
Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works best—avoid quick-cook or instant varieties, which can turn mushy.
How do I store leftover BBQ chicken and rice?
Keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth to revive the rice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use GF BBQ sauce (like this one) and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
Is this dish spicy?
Not unless you want it to be! For heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Pork chops or shrimp would be delicious—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
There you have it—a fuss-free, flavor-packed dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to love. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet is guaranteed to deliver smiles (and clean plates). Now, who’s ready to dig in?
PrintSweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
Description
A one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a sweet BBQ glaze for a quick and delicious weeknight meal. Perfect for busy families!
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- For the chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- For the BBQ glaze:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- For garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- 1. Season chicken thighs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- 3. In same skillet, melt butter and add rice. Toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
- 4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from pan. Bring to simmer.
- 5. Return chicken to skillet, nestling pieces into rice. Cover and reduce heat to low. Cook 20 minutes.
- 6. Meanwhile, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
- 7. After 20 minutes, uncover and brush chicken with BBQ glaze. Cover and cook 5 more minutes.
- 8. Remove from heat and let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
For spicier version, add 1/2 tsp chili powder to chicken seasoning. Leftovers keep well in fridge for 3 days. Reheat with splash of water to prevent drying.
