Honey Garlic Chicken Rice – Sweet, Savory & So Easy

Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time? This honey garlic chicken rice recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness.

Tender chicken cooked in a sticky honey garlic sauce pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this one-pan recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The rich glaze clings to every bite of chicken, making each spoonful irresistibly delicious. Serve it with steamed veggies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a complete, wholesome meal.

Recipe Information

• Servings: 4 people
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Why This Recipe Works

This honey garlic chicken rice is a complete meal in one pan, which means less cleanup and more time with your family.

The sweet honey perfectly balances the savory garlic and soy sauce, creating a restaurant-quality glaze right in your kitchen. Plus, cooking the rice in the same pan allows it to absorb all the flavorful chicken drippings, making every bite absolutely irresistible.

Equipment Needed

• Large oven-safe skillet or deep pan with lid
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Check Other Recipes –

• Perfectly Crunchy Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
• Crispy on the Outside, Fluffy Inside: The Best Hash Browns Recipe
• Cheesy Breadsticks So Good You’ll Never Order Out Again
• Fast, Flavorful & Fancy: Red Curry Poached Salmon in the Microwave

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Rice:

• 1.5 cups jasmine or long-grain white rice
• 2.5 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For Garnish:

• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color when searing.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes if using. Set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat vegetable oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. You’re not cooking them through yet—just getting that nice color. Remove chicken and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

In the same pan, add butter and let it melt. Add the uncooked rice and stir for about 1 minute to toast it slightly. Pour in the chicken broth and salt, then stir to combine.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Place the seared chicken thighs on top of the rice. Pour the honey garlic sauce evenly over the chicken. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid. Garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

• Chicken thighs vs. breasts: Thighs stay juicier and more flavorful, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer. Just reduce cooking time slightly.
• Check your rice: Different rice varieties absorb liquid differently. If your rice isn’t tender after 25 minutes, add a splash more broth and cook a few minutes longer.
• Extra sauce: Double the honey garlic sauce if you love extra glaze. Spoon it over the chicken before serving.
• Make it spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for extra kick.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This honey garlic chicken rice recipe proves that delicious home cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients and one pan, you’ll have a flavorful dinner that tastes like it took hours to make. Give it a try tonight—your taste buds will thank you!