Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
This Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet brings together tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a homemade barbecue sauce in one easy dish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly meal delivers bold flavors with minimal cleanup. Learn how to make this simple yet satisfying dinner that will become a regular in your rotation.
Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet Recipe
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skillet
This Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet checks all the boxes for an ideal weeknight meal:
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Only one pan needed
- Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Great for meal prep
Ingredients for Sweet BBQ Chicken Skillet
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
How to Make BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Stir in rice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the rice slightly.
- Pour in chicken broth, barbecue sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Rice Skillet
Make your Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet even better with these pro tips:
- For extra flavor, use a cast iron skillet
- Swap regular barbecue sauce for a spicy variety if you prefer heat
- Add frozen peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking
- Top with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving
- Double the recipe for easy leftovers – it reheats beautifully
What to Serve With BBQ Chicken Skillet
This complete meal stands on its own, but pairs well with:
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Cornbread muffins
- Coleslaw
Nutrition Information
One serving of this Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and may need additional liquid.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water.
Can I make this dish in a rice cooker?
While possible, we recommend the stovetop method for best texture and flavor development.
More Easy Skillet Dinner Recipes
If you enjoyed this Sweet BBQ Chicken and Rice Skillet, try these other simple one-pan meals:
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Skillet
- Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
- Lemon Butter Shrimp and Rice
- Vegetable Stir Fry with Brown Rice
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