One Pan Honey BBQ: Delicious 1-Dish Meal

One Pan Honey BBQ chicken has become my absolute go-to for those nights when cooking feels like a mountain too high to climb. I remember the first time I made this, the aroma of sweet honey and smoky BBQ sauce filled my kitchen, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. The chicken thighs came out so incredibly tender, practically melting in my mouth, while the rice underneath soaked up all those delicious juices. It’s truly an easy one pan honey BBQ chicken that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This One Pan Honey BBQ Recipe

This recipe is a weeknight game-changer, and I know you’re going to adore it! It’s designed to make your life easier and your taste buds happier. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Minimal Cleanup: Seriously, just one pan to wash! It’s the ultimate convenience.
• Incredible Flavor: The sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce is utterly irresistible.
• Tender & Juicy Chicken: Chicken thighs stay perfectly moist and flavorful.
• Complete Meal: It’s a hearty sheet pan honey BBQ chicken dinner with protein, carbs, and delicious sauce all in one.
• Quick Prep: Most of the magic happens while it cooks, letting you relax.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will devour this delicious sheet pan honey BBQ chicken dinner.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable for different proteins or veggies.

Ingredients for Your Honey BBQ Chicken Thighs One Pan Meal

Gathering these ingredients is the first step toward a fantastic honey BBQ chicken thighs one pan meal that will become a staple in your kitchen. The simplicity of this dish starts with having everything ready to go.

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs – These are key for juicy, flavorful results in our one-pan wonder.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Just enough to get a beautiful sear on the chicken.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika – Adds a lovely smoky depth to the seasoning.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – For that essential savory kick.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Complements the garlic and adds another layer of flavor.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – Freshly ground is best for a little bite.
• ½ tsp salt – To enhance all the other flavors.
• 1.5 cups (300g) long-grain white rice, rinsed – Rinsing is important for fluffy, separated grains.
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth – This is where a lot of the rice’s flavor comes from.
• ½ cup (120ml) water – To get the perfect liquid-to-rice ratio.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Softens beautifully and adds sweetness.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that irresistible aroma and taste.
• ¾ cup (180ml) BBQ sauce – Your favorite kind works great!
• ¼ cup (60ml) honey – The star that makes this sauce wonderfully sticky and sweet.
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar – Balances the sweetness with a touch of tang.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a complex umami note.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – A little bit of zip to round out the sauce.
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional) – For just a hint of heat.
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a burst of freshness.
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish) – For a bit of color and mild onion flavor.

How to Make the Best One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

Follow these simple steps to create an amazing meal with minimal fuss. I promise, how to make one pan honey BBQ chicken is easier than you think!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat your chicken thighs completely dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp salt. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over all sides of the chicken thighs.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken thighs into the skillet. Sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Step 3: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the 1 small yellow onion, diced, to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and becomes translucent. Add the 2 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly until it becomes wonderfully fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the ¾ cup (180ml) BBQ sauce, ¼ cup (60ml) honey, 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and the pinch red pepper flakes (if you’re using them for a little kick). Stir everything together, using your spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let this sauce mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Step 5: Thoroughly rinse your 1.5 cups (300g) long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Add the rinsed rice directly into the skillet with the simmering sauce and onion mixture. Stir well to ensure every grain is coated. Pour in the 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth and ½ cup (120ml) water, stirring to combine everything. Carefully nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, placing them on top of the rice mixture.
6. Step 6: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the entire mixture to a gentle boil. As soon as it starts boiling, reduce the heat immediately to low. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid, ensuring a good seal. Let it cook undisturbed for 20-25 minutes. You’ll smell the delicious aromas building!
7. Step 7: Once the cooking time is up, remove the skillet from the heat but resist the urge to lift the lid. Let the dish rest, still covered, for another 10 minutes. This resting period is crucial for perfectly cooked rice and incredibly tender chicken. After resting, carefully remove the lid. Gently fluff the rice with a fork. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs; they should reach 165°F (74°C). Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and sliced green onions. Serve this fantastic one pan honey BBQ chicken dinner directly from the skillet.

Pro Tips for the Perfect One Pan Honey BBQ

I’ve made this dish more times than I can count, and over time, I’ve picked up a few tricks that guarantee it turns out amazing every single time. Try these tips for your next one pan honey BBQ adventure!

• Always use chicken thighs; they are far more forgiving and stay incredibly moist compared to chicken breast in a one-pan dish.
• Don’t skip rinsing the rice! It removes excess starch, which is crucial for fluffy, separated grains instead of a gummy mess.
• Make sure your skillet is hot before searing the chicken. This creates that beautiful golden-brown crust that adds so much flavor.
• Resist the urge to peek! Keeping the lid on during the rice cooking and resting phases is vital for trapping steam and ensuring everything cooks evenly.

What’s the secret to perfect One Pan Honey BBQ?

The real secret to a perfect simple honey BBQ chicken bake is the balance of flavors in the sauce and the proper cooking technique. Searing the chicken first and then letting it simmer in the sauce infuses it with incredible taste. For more on flavor balancing in cooking, check out this guide to basic tastes.

Can I make this One Pan Honey BBQ ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the components ahead! Season and sear the chicken, make the sauce, and rinse the rice up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine and cook as directed, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the chicken is cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with One Pan Honey BBQ?

The most common pitfalls are using chicken breast (it dries out!) or overcrowding the pan when searing, which prevents a good crust. Also, don’t lift the lid while the rice is cooking—that steam is essential! Learn more about common cooking mistakes.

Best Ways to Serve Your One Pan Honey BBQ Dinner Ideas

This one pan honey BBQ chicken is so flavorful on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that complement its sweet and savory profile. It’s a complete meal right from the skillet, but here are a few of my favorite one pan honey BBQ dinner ideas for serving.

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp, simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect contrast to the rich, saucy chicken and rice.
• Steamed or Roasted Broccoli: The slight bitterness of broccoli stands up beautifully to the honey BBQ flavor. I often toss florets with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast them on a separate small pan for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
• Corn on the Cob: Whether grilled, boiled, or roasted, sweet corn is a classic pairing that echoes the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Nutrition Facts for One Pan Honey BBQ Chicken

This delicious one pan honey BBQ chicken is a satisfying meal, and here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving. Keep in mind these are general figures and can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: Approx. 600-700 kcal
• Fat: Approx. 25-35g
• Saturated Fat: Approx. 7-10g
• Protein: Approx. 40-50g
• Carbohydrates: Approx. 60-70g
• Fiber: Approx. 2-4g
• Sugar: Approx. 20-30g
• Sodium: Approx. 800-1200mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Your One Pan Honey BBQ

Once your delicious one pan honey BBQ dish has cooled completely, it’s time to think about storing any leftovers. I like to portion mine into airtight containers right away so that reheating is a breeze later. This dish keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store it for longer, you’re in luck! It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

When it comes to reheating, I have a couple of favorite methods for reheating sheet pan meals like this. For a quick reheat, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For a slightly crispier texture, I recommend reheating in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered, for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, covered, until heated through. Enjoy your perfectly reheated one pan honey BBQ!

Frequently Asked Questions About One Pan Honey BBQ

What is a sheet pan honey BBQ meal?

A sheet pan honey BBQ meal is a complete dinner cooked on a single baking sheet or in a single oven-safe skillet. The beauty is that everything—protein, vegetables, and often a starch like rice or potatoes—cooks together, infusing flavors and minimizing cleanup. It’s the ultimate convenience for busy cooks. For more on convenient cooking, see this article.

Why use one pan for honey BBQ?

Using one pan for your honey BBQ creation is a game-changer for several reasons! Primarily, it drastically cuts down on dishes, meaning less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal or relaxing. It also allows all the delicious honey BBQ flavors to meld together beautifully as they cook, creating a richer, more integrated taste profile.

Can I substitute chicken thighs in this one pan honey BBQ recipe?

Absolutely! While chicken thighs are my favorite for this one pan honey BBQ recipe because they stay so moist, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Just be mindful that chicken breast cooks faster, so you might want to add it to the pan a bit later or adjust the cooking time to prevent it from drying out. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For tips on cooking chicken breast, check out this guide.

What other vegetables work well in a sheet pan honey BBQ chicken dinner?

You can customize your sheet pan honey BBQ chicken dinner with a variety of vegetables! Bell peppers (any color), broccoli florets, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even sweet potato cubes are fantastic additions. Just toss them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper, and add them to the pan during the last 20-25 minutes of cooking, alongside the chicken and rice.

Variations of One Pan Honey BBQ You Can Try

While this one pan honey BBQ chicken recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Here are a few variations you can try to shake up your dinner routine.

• Healthy One Pan Honey BBQ Recipe: For a lighter take, swap chicken thighs for chicken breast and load up on extra vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also reduce the honey slightly and add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang.
• Gluten-Free One Pan Honey BBQ: This recipe is already quite adaptable! Ensure your BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce are certified gluten-free. You can also substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a grain-free option. This makes for a delicious gluten-free one pan honey BBQ meal.
• Sheet Pan Honey BBQ Pork Chops: Swap the chicken thighs for bone-in or boneless pork chops. Sear them first as you would the chicken, then nestle them into the rice and sauce mixture. Adjust cooking time as needed for pork (145°F/63°C internal temperature).
• Spicy Honey BBQ Shrimp Skillet: For a quicker meal, use shrimp instead of chicken. Sear the shrimp briefly, then add them back to the pan during the last 5 minutes of the rice cooking time. This creates a wonderfully flavorful honey BBQ chicken skillet recipe variation.

One Pan Honey BBQ: Delicious 1-Dish Meal

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 65 Minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

An easy, flavorful one-pan dinner featuring tender chicken, fluffy rice, and an irresistible honey BBQ sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1.5 cups (300g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 2 cups (470ml) chicken broth
• ½ cup (120ml) water
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¾ cup (180ml) BBQ sauce
• ¼ cup (60ml) honey
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Green onions, sliced (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken thighs dry. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Sprinkle this seasoning blend generously over all sides of the chicken thighs.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place seasoned chicken thighs into the hot skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side until golden-brown. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add diced yellow onion to the skillet; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4. Pour in BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir all ingredients together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
5. Rinse long-grain white rice thoroughly. Add the rinsed rice directly into the skillet with the simmering sauce and onion mixture; stir well to coat. Pour in chicken broth and water, stirring to combine. Carefully nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet on top of the rice mixture.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat immediately to low. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid and cook undisturbed for 20-25 minutes.
7. After cooking, remove skillet from heat but do not lift the lid. Let the dish rest, still covered, for another 10 minutes. Once rested, carefully remove the lid. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and check chicken internal temperature (165°F/74°C). Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro and sliced green onions before serving directly from the skillet.

Notes

• Chicken thighs stay exceptionally juicy and absorb flavors well. Chicken breast can be used but requires a shorter cooking time to avoid dryness.
• Rinsing the rice is recommended for a fluffy texture.
• Ensure the skillet is well-heated before searing the chicken for a good crust.
• Do not overcrowd the pan when searing chicken.
• Resist lifting the lid during the rice cooking time to maintain steam.
• The resting period is crucial for perfectly cooked rice and tender chicken.
• Garnishes are optional but add freshness and visual appeal.

• Prep Time: 20 Minutes
• Cook Time: 45 Minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: One Pan Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approx. 600-700 kcal (estimate)
• Sugar: Approx. 20-30g (estimate)
• Sodium: Approx. 800-1200mg (estimate)
• Fat: Approx. 25-35g (estimate)
• Saturated Fat: Approx. 7-10g (estimate)
• Unsaturated Fat: Approx. 15-20g (estimate)
• Trans Fat: Approx. 0g (estimate)
• Carbohydrates: Approx. 60-70g (estimate)
• Fiber: Approx. 2-4g (estimate)
• Protein: Approx. 40-50g (estimate)
• Cholesterol: Approx. 150-200mg (estimate)

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