Honey BBQ Chicken Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Protein

01 - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

→ Grains

02 - 1 cup long-grain rice

→ Liquids

03 - 2 cups chicken broth

→ Sauces

04 - 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
05 - 1/4 cup honey

→ Spices

06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - Salt and pepper, to taste

→ Vegetables

10 - 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

→ Garnish

11 - Chopped green onions or parsley

# Instructions:

01 - Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add a drizzle of oil to the pan and sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
02 - In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the BBQ sauce and honey.
03 - Return the seared chicken to the pan, nestling it into the rice mixture. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes.
04 - After 15 minutes, sprinkle the mixed vegetables over the rice. Cover again and continue cooking for 5 more minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is fully cooked (internal temp of 165°F/74°C).
05 - Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot!

# Notes:

01 - Use long-grain rice for the best texture—short-grain may become mushy.
02 - Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey based on your preference.
03 - For extra smokiness, use a mesquite or hickory BBQ sauce.
04 - Swap the protein—this recipe works well with shrimp, tofu, or even beef!