Description
A flavorful, one-pan meal with tender chicken thighs, rice, veggies, and a sweet-tangy BBQ sauce—perfect for a cozy, easy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs boneless chicken thighs, diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season diced chicken thighs with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the rice, corn, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Add chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine and ensure rice is submerged.
- Return chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
- Optional: Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and cover briefly to melt.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions before serving.
Notes
- Swap brown rice for a whole grain option—add liquid and extend cooking time.
- Customize with veggies like spinach, peas, or zucchini.
- Add smoked paprika or chipotle for deeper flavor.
- Substitute chicken breast or turkey for the thighs if preferred.
- Reserve extra BBQ sauce to stir in before serving for more moisture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
