Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls Tasty and Simple Meal

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Are you looking for a meal that’s both tasty and easy to make? Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls are the answer! This dish combines tender chicken thighs, sweet honey, and savory BBQ sauce basking over fluffy jasmine rice. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekends filled with fun. Join me in creating this delicious meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making cooking a breeze!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful Marinade: The combination of honey and BBQ sauce creates a sweet and tangy flavor that’s irresistible.
  3. Customizable Veggies: You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand for a personal touch.
  4. Healthy and Satisfying: With protein, veggies, and whole grains, this dish is both nutritious and filling.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

– 1/2 cup honey

– 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced thin

– 1 medium onion, sliced thin

– 1 cup corn (choose fresh, frozen or canned)

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

– Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Nutritional Information

Each serving has about 550 calories. You get 30 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 70 grams of carbs. This meal is filling and tasty. It gives you energy for the day.

Cooking Tools Needed

– Mixing bowl

– Skillet

– Measuring cups and spoons

Gather these items before you start cooking. This way, you have everything ready to go. It makes cooking fun and easy!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Marinade

To start, I whisk together the following ingredients in a bowl:

– 1/2 cup honey

– 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

– 1 tablespoon soy sauce

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Mix them well until you see a smooth blend. This marinade is key. It adds sweet and savory notes to the chicken, enhancing its flavor.

Marinating the Chicken

Next, take 1 pound of bite-sized chicken thighs. Add them to the marinade, making sure each piece gets a good coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For deeper flavors, you can marinate it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This step makes the chicken more tender and tasty.

Cooking the Vegetables and Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add thinly sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them soft and lightly caramelized. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Now, in the same skillet, add the marinated chicken along with the marinade. Cook this over medium heat for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir it often to cook evenly. Check that the chicken’s internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat.

Finalizing the Dish

In the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup of corn. This adds a nice sweetness that complements the BBQ flavor.

To serve, scoop 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice into bowls. Top each bowl with the honey BBQ chicken and the sautéed vegetables. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Marinade

To make the best marinade, find the right balance of sweet and savory. Start with equal parts honey and BBQ sauce. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. For a tangier taste, increase the BBQ sauce. You can also swap out BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce or even a homemade mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices.

Cooking Techniques

Cook the chicken evenly by using bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook faster and more evenly. Always check the thickest part of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to be safe. For vegetables, heat your skillet before adding them. This helps them caramelize. Stir them often for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation matters! Serve each rice bowl with a lime wedge. Squeeze the lime over the dish for an extra burst of flavor. For sides, consider a simple green salad or some crispy tortilla chips. They add a nice crunch and balance the meal. Try different toppings like avocado or salsa for added flair.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate Longer for Depth: For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly.
  2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality BBQ sauce to enhance the overall taste of your dish. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference!
  3. Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of honey or choose a BBQ sauce that is less sweet. Balance is key!
  4. Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can easily swap the chicken thighs for chicken breast. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks faster. If you prefer a plant-based option, try tofu. Press the tofu to remove water and cut it into cubes. Marinate it just like the chicken. You can also use pork or shrimp if you want other meat options. Both pair well with the honey BBQ sauce.

Dietary Adaptations

If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free soy sauce. Many brands offer this option. For a vegan meal, use tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken. You can also use a plant-based BBQ sauce to keep it vegan-friendly.

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch jasmine rice for brown or wild rice. Both options add a different texture and flavor. Also, feel free to mix in different veggies. Zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas work well. Just sauté them like the bell peppers and onions. Experiment with what you have on hand to make it your own!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls fresh, follow these tips:

– Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing.

– Place leftovers in airtight containers.

– Store in the fridge for up to three days.

Using airtight containers helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. I recommend using glass containers since they are easy to clean and safe for reheating.

Reheating Tips

When reheating your rice bowls, follow these steps:

– Use a microwave-safe bowl for quick reheating.

– Add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

– Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel.

Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results, reheat chicken separately in a skillet over medium heat. This keeps it juicy and warm without drying out.

Freezing Options

Yes, you can freeze these rice bowls! Here’s how to do it right:

– Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.

– Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.

– Label containers with the date for tracking.

To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until hot. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal later!

FAQs

How long can I marinate the chicken?

I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavors, let it sit for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This time allows the chicken to soak in the sweet and tangy flavors from the marinade.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and veggies, then store them separately. Use airtight containers for best results. When ready to eat, simply reheat and serve over cooked jasmine rice.

What other vegetables work well in this recipe?

You can add a variety of veggies. Try zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas. These will add color and crunch. Get creative with what you have at home. Mixing in different vegetables can change the flavor profile too!

Is this recipe spicy?

This recipe is not spicy, but you can adjust it. If you want some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicier BBQ sauce if you prefer. Enjoy making it your own!

This recipe combines simple ingredients to create tasty rice bowls. We discussed the key components, cooking steps, and tips for success. You can vary the protein and adapt it to different diets, too. Remember, good storage keeps leftovers fresh. Enjoy trying this recipe your way. With easy adjustments, you can make it your own. Dive into these flavors and make family meals fu

- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces - 1/2 cup honey - 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), sliced thin - 1 medium onion, sliced thin - 1 cup corn (choose fresh, frozen or canned) - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) - Sliced green onions (for garnish) Each serving has about 550 calories. You get 30 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, and 70 grams of carbs. This meal is filling and tasty. It gives you energy for the day. - Mixing bowl - Skillet - Measuring cups and spoons Gather these items before you start cooking. This way, you have everything ready to go. It makes cooking fun and easy! {{ingredient_image_2}} To start, I whisk together the following ingredients in a bowl: - 1/2 cup honey - 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 teaspoon garlic powder Mix them well until you see a smooth blend. This marinade is key. It adds sweet and savory notes to the chicken, enhancing its flavor. Next, take 1 pound of bite-sized chicken thighs. Add them to the marinade, making sure each piece gets a good coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. For deeper flavors, you can marinate it in the fridge for up to 2 hours. This step makes the chicken more tender and tasty. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add thinly sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them soft and lightly caramelized. When done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Now, in the same skillet, add the marinated chicken along with the marinade. Cook this over medium heat for about 10 to 12 minutes. Stir it often to cook evenly. Check that the chicken's internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. In the last 2 to 3 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup of corn. This adds a nice sweetness that complements the BBQ flavor. To serve, scoop 2 cups of cooked jasmine rice into bowls. Top each bowl with the honey BBQ chicken and the sautéed vegetables. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced green onions. Enjoy your delicious meal! To make the best marinade, find the right balance of sweet and savory. Start with equal parts honey and BBQ sauce. If you want it sweeter, add more honey. For a tangier taste, increase the BBQ sauce. You can also swap out BBQ sauce for teriyaki sauce or even a homemade mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices. Cook the chicken evenly by using bite-sized pieces. This helps it cook faster and more evenly. Always check the thickest part of the chicken. It should reach at least 165°F (75°C) to be safe. For vegetables, heat your skillet before adding them. This helps them caramelize. Stir them often for even cooking. Presentation matters! Serve each rice bowl with a lime wedge. Squeeze the lime over the dish for an extra burst of flavor. For sides, consider a simple green salad or some crispy tortilla chips. They add a nice crunch and balance the meal. Try different toppings like avocado or salsa for added flair. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Depth: For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more thoroughly. Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality BBQ sauce to enhance the overall taste of your dish. Fresh ingredients make a significant difference! Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet flavor, reduce the amount of honey or choose a BBQ sauce that is less sweet. Balance is key! Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add other toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor and texture. {{image_4}} You can easily swap the chicken thighs for chicken breast. Chicken breast is leaner and cooks faster. If you prefer a plant-based option, try tofu. Press the tofu to remove water and cut it into cubes. Marinate it just like the chicken. You can also use pork or shrimp if you want other meat options. Both pair well with the honey BBQ sauce. If you need a gluten-free meal, choose gluten-free soy sauce. Many brands offer this option. For a vegan meal, use tofu or tempeh as a substitute for chicken. You can also use a plant-based BBQ sauce to keep it vegan-friendly. You can switch jasmine rice for brown or wild rice. Both options add a different texture and flavor. Also, feel free to mix in different veggies. Zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas work well. Just sauté them like the bell peppers and onions. Experiment with what you have on hand to make it your own! To keep your Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls fresh, follow these tips: - Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing. - Place leftovers in airtight containers. - Store in the fridge for up to three days. Using airtight containers helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. I recommend using glass containers since they are easy to clean and safe for reheating. When reheating your rice bowls, follow these steps: - Use a microwave-safe bowl for quick reheating. - Add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out. - Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For best results, reheat chicken separately in a skillet over medium heat. This keeps it juicy and warm without drying out. Yes, you can freeze these rice bowls! Here’s how to do it right: - Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing. - Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. - Label containers with the date for tracking. To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until hot. This way, you can enjoy your delicious meal later! I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavors, let it sit for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This time allows the chicken to soak in the sweet and tangy flavors from the marinade. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead. Cook the chicken and veggies, then store them separately. Use airtight containers for best results. When ready to eat, simply reheat and serve over cooked jasmine rice. You can add a variety of veggies. Try zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas. These will add color and crunch. Get creative with what you have at home. Mixing in different vegetables can change the flavor profile too! This recipe is not spicy, but you can adjust it. If you want some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicier BBQ sauce if you prefer. Enjoy making it your own! This recipe combines simple ingredients to create tasty rice bowls. We discussed the key components, cooking steps, and tips for success. You can vary the protein and adapt it to different diets, too. Remember, good storage keeps leftovers fresh. Enjoy trying this recipe your way. With easy adjustments, you can make it your own. Dive into these flavors and make family meals fun!

Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowls

A delicious and easy-to-make rice bowl featuring marinated chicken thighs in a sweet and tangy honey BBQ sauce, served over jasmine rice with sautéed vegetables.
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 2 honey
  • 1 2 your favorite BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper sliced thin (red or yellow)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced thin
  • 1 cup corn (choose fresh, frozen or canned)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, and garlic powder until fully blended. This will be your flavorful marinade.
  • Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator to deepen the flavors.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and begin to caramelize. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
  • Using the same skillet, add the marinated chicken along with the marinade sauce. Cook over medium heat for approximately 10-12 minutes, stirring periodically, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce has thickened. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • In the final 2-3 minutes of cooking, stir in the corn to heat it through, integrating it well with the chicken and sauce.
  • To serve, scoop a generous amount of cooked jasmine rice into each bowl. Top with a hearty portion of the honey BBQ chicken and sautéed vegetables.
  • Finish the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro and sliced green onions for added freshness and color.

Notes

Serve each rice bowl with a lime wedge on the side for a zesty squeeze before digging in.
Keyword BBQ, chicken, honey, rice bowl

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