Description
This BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe features tender, smoky chicken glazed in rich barbecue sauce served over fluffy, savory rice. It is quick and easy to prepare, versatile to customize with various flavors and vegetables, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, and family-friendly for all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and BBQ Sauce
- 4 boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Rice and Aromatics
- 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
Optional Fresh Herbs and Variations
- Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or black beans (optional)
- Spices like cayenne pepper or hot sauce for heat (optional)
- Apple cider vinegar or honey to add to BBQ sauce for smoky sweet twist (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and nearly cooked through.
- Add BBQ Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and pour your BBQ sauce over the chicken, coating each piece generously. Allow it to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes so the flavors meld and the chicken finishes cooking.
- Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, sauté garlic and onion in a bit of olive oil until softened. Add the rice and stir until lightly toasted. Pour in chicken broth or water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover to simmer until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Combine and Serve: Slice or shred the BBQ chicken and serve it atop a bed of warm rice. Garnish with fresh herbs or chopped green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Notes
- Use a thick BBQ sauce for a rich, sticky finish that clings to the chicken.
- Do not overcook the chicken; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep it juicy.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork after cooking to separate grains and improve texture.
- To make the rice creamier, stir in a bit of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Prep ingredients ahead by chopping aromatics or pre-cooking rice to save time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1 chicken breast and 1 cup rice)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg