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Looking for a quick, tasty dinner that packs a punch? The Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is just what you need. With tender chicken, colorful veggies, and a sweet and tangy sauce, you can whip up this meal in no time. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, and storage ideas to make cooking easy and fun. Ready to dive into this flavorful adventure? Let’s get started!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The sweet honey BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the smoky paprika and garlic, creating a mouthwatering dish that satisfies every craving.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With a marinating time of just 30 minutes and a total cooking time of 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Using lean chicken breasts and a variety of colorful vegetables, this dish is nutritious while still being incredibly flavorful.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a rice bowl, or use the grilled chicken and veggies in wraps or salads for a delightful twist.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
– 1/2 cup honey BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasoning and Vegetables
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Sesame seeds
For this Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl, we start with simple ingredients. The chicken breasts are key. They are lean and cook up tender. You will also need jasmine rice for a lovely base. This rice brings a nice aroma and texture that pairs well with the chicken.
The honey BBQ sauce is where the magic happens. It adds sweetness and a smoky taste. Olive oil helps keep the chicken moist and golden brown. For seasoning, garlic powder and smoked paprika bring depth. They create a rich flavor that makes each bite special.
Next, we add color and crunch with bell peppers and red onion. These vegetables not only taste great but also brighten up your bowl. You can use any colors of bell peppers you like. Just remember to slice them thin for even cooking.
At the end, we garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. These toppings add a fresh pop and a little crunch. Each ingredient plays its part in making this dish a hit!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
To start, mix the honey BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This creates a tasty marinade. Take your boneless chicken breasts and coat them well with the marinade. Make sure every surface is covered. Then, place the chicken in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavor soak in.
Grilling the Chicken
Next, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, take the chicken from the fridge. Don’t forget to save some marinade for later! Place the chicken on the grill. Cook it for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You want it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This means it’s fully cooked. After cooking, brush the chicken with the reserved marinade. This adds a nice caramelized touch.
Sautéing the Vegetables
While the chicken grills, it’s time to sauté the veggies. Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often. You want them tender and slightly caramelized. This adds extra flavor to your dish.
Assembling the Rice Bowls
Now, let’s put it all together! Start with a base of cooked jasmine rice in each bowl. Next, add the sautéed bell peppers and onion for a burst of color. Then, place the grilled chicken strips on top of the veggies and rice. Drizzle a bit more honey BBQ sauce over everything to enhance the flavor. Lastly, for a fun touch, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking the Chicken
Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This step is key for safety and flavor. Use a meat thermometer for accurate readings. After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices stay in the meat, making it moist and tender. Slice it only after resting for easier serving.
Vegetable Preparation
Sauté the bell peppers and red onion until they are tender and caramelized. This adds depth and sweetness. You can mix different vegetables like zucchini or carrots. Feel free to experiment! Each mix brings a new flavor and color to your bowl.
Presentation Ideas
Use colorful plates for serving. This makes the meal look fresh and inviting. A wedge of lime on the side adds a nice burst of flavor. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and crunch. This little touch makes your dish stand out and more enjoyable.
Pro Tips
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour or overnight if possible. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat more deeply.
- Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill properly to ensure a good sear on the chicken, which will help lock in moisture and flavor.
- Resting the Chicken: Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat more tender and juicy.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use other vegetables like zucchini or asparagus for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.

Variations
Protein Swaps
You can easily swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a nice touch. Just grill or sauté them like you would the chicken. Tofu is a great plant-based option. Press the tofu to remove water, then marinate it like the chicken. Both options bring a new taste to your rice bowl.
Flavor Enhancements
Feel free to experiment with different BBQ sauces or marinades. You might try a spicy BBQ sauce for heat. A honey mustard sauce can add a tangy twist. Each sauce gives a unique flavor that can change your bowl. Mix and match to find your favorite combination!
Grain Options
If you want a change from jasmine rice, try brown rice or quinoa. Brown rice has a nutty flavor and is heartier. Quinoa is a protein-rich option that cooks quickly. Both grains will give your dish a new texture while keeping it healthy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty for up to three days. Make sure to cool the food before storing it away.
Reheating
For the best taste, reheat the rice bowl in the microwave or on the stovetop. If using a microwave, place a damp paper towel over the bowl to keep moisture in. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway through. On the stovetop, warm it on low heat, stirring often.
Freezing
You can freeze the chicken and rice separately for longer storage. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. For the rice, use a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat as usual, and enjoy!
FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
The recommended marinating time is at least 30 minutes. This time allows the chicken to soak up the honey BBQ sauce. The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor. If you can, try to marinate for up to two hours. This helps make the chicken tender and juicy.
Can I use regular rice instead of jasmine rice?
Yes, but jasmine rice is preferred for its aroma and texture. Jasmine rice adds a subtle, sweet flavor that pairs well with honey BBQ. Regular rice can work, but it may lack the same depth of taste. If you have it, stick with jasmine for the best results.
What can I serve with Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl?
Here are some great side dish and drink suggestions:
– Side dishes: Steamed broccoli, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad.
– Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer work well.
These options enhance the meal and make it more enjoyable.
Making a Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is simple and tasty. We covered the key ingredients, including chicken, rice, and vegetables. I shared step-by-step instructions for marinating, grilling, and assembling your bowl. Tips on cooking, presentation, and variations help you make this dish your own. Storage advice ensures your leftovers stay fresh. Enjoy making this wholesome meal. It’s a great choice for busy days or special occasions. Now, gather your ingredients and get cookin
Honey BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl
A delicious and colorful rice bowl featuring grilled chicken marinated in honey BBQ sauce, served over jasmine rice with sautéed bell peppers and red onion.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 2
Calories 500 kcal
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup cooked jasmine rice
- 0.5 cup honey BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 cup mixed bell peppers, sliced
- 0.5 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 pieces green onions, chopped
- to taste sesame seeds
Begin by creating a marinade for the chicken. In a medium bowl, combine the honey BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, take the chicken from the marinade (reserve the excess marinade for later) and place the breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is fully cooked.
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the vegetables. In a separate pan, heat an additional tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and red onion to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and have developed a light caramelization.
After the chicken is cooked, generously brush it with the reserved honey BBQ marinade. Return it to the grill and cook for an additional minute on each side to allow the sauce to caramelize beautifully on the surface.
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. After resting, slice the chicken breasts into strips, which will make for better presentation and easier serving.
To assemble your rice bowls, start with a base of jasmine rice in each serving bowl. Layer on the sautéed bell peppers and red onion for a pop of color and flavor.
Place the sliced grilled chicken on top of the vegetables and rice. Drizzle a little extra honey BBQ sauce over each bowl to enhance the flavor.
Finish off your beautiful bowls by garnishing with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Serve the rice bowls on a colorful plate to highlight the vibrant colors of the vegetables. A wedge of lime on the side can add a fresh burst if desired.
Keyword BBQ, chicken, grilled, rice bowl
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