bbq chicken and rice recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best bbq chicken and rice recipe

I’ve been making this BBQ chicken and rice recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a staple in many Southern American households, where it’s known as a classic comfort food.

The combination of tender chicken, flavorful BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice is a match made in heaven. I love how easy it is to prepare, yet the flavors are so rich and satisfying.

My kids devour this dish, and it’s one of the few meals they’ll actually ask for seconds. I’ve even served it at family gatherings, and it’s always been a crowd-pleaser.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize with your favorite seasonings or spices.

I like to add some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor. My husband loves when I serve it with a side of steamed broccoli for a healthier option.

This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will be in yours too once you try it.

BBQ Chicken and Rice

4.6 from 1662 votes

A one-pot meal featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a smoky barbecue sauce with fluffy rice. This dish combines sweet and tangy flavors for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time35 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain white rice
1.5 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp butter

For Garnish

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 green onion, sliced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Season the chicken thighs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
3Add the chicken thighs to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
5Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the skillet.
6Saute the diced onion and minced garlic for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
7Stir in the rice, chicken broth, and barbecue sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
8Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
9Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice.
10Cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
11Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
12Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onion, and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 12g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For extra smoky flavor, use a hickory or mesquite barbecue sauce. You can substitute chicken breasts, but reduce cooking time by 2 to 3 minutes per side to prevent drying out.

Watch Video Of How BBQ Chicken and Rice Works

This BBQ chicken and rice recipe has become a go-to meal for me whenever I need something comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions like family gatherings.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized to suit individual tastes – just add your favorite seasonings or spices! The leftovers also reheat beautifully for quick lunches or dinners on-the-go.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken and Rice

Q: What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

The best type of chicken to use is boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use a combination of both if you prefer.

Q: Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

While store-bought BBQ sauce is convenient, I highly recommend making your own using a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. It adds so much depth and richness to the dish.

Q: How do I ensure the rice doesn’t become mushy?

Make sure to cook the rice according to package instructions until it’s lightly toasted but still slightly firm in the center. This will help prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the BBQ sauce.

Q: Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and rice mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply refrigerate until ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for special diets?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted to suit other dietary needs by substituting ingredients such as gluten-free BBQ sauce or using cauliflower instead of traditional rice.

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