Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine Ingredients: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, BBQ sauce, and honey. Stir well to combine.
Add Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces evenly over the rice mixture.
Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
Remove Foil and Continue Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
Rest: Remove from oven and let stand for 5-10 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork.
Garnish & Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot.
Tips and Variations:
Chicken Type: Chicken thighs will be more moist and flavorful, but chicken breasts work well too. Adjust cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the chicken.
Rice Choice: Long-grain rice is recommended, but you can experiment with other types. Adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly.
Vegetables: Add diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn to the baking dish along with the rice for a more complete meal.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of honey and smoked paprika to your preference for sweetness and smokiness. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce! A honey BBQ sauce complements the dish well, but you can also use a spicier or sweeter variety.
Enjoy your delicious One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Chicken Rice!
