One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice

Name: One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons honey; 3 tablespoons butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 1 teaspoon soy sauce

Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals

Savor the sweet and savory goodness of this One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice recipe. Juicy chicken thighs are cooked to perfection in a rich honey garlic sauce, then tossed with fluffy rice to create a comforting and easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder minimizes clean-up while delivering maximum flavor, making it a family favorite you'll love to make time and time again!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-28T08:50:11.610Z

This dish combines the rich flavors of honey and garlic in a deliciously comforting way. Whether you’re cooking for your family or having a gathering with friends, this recipe will be a hit!

The Perfect One-Pan Meal

This One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice recipe exemplifies the beauty of simplicity in the kitchen. With just one pan, you can create a culinary masterpiece that combines juicy chicken thighs with fluffy rice and a flavorful sauce. This recipe is designed for those busy weeknights when you crave a home-cooked meal without the hours of preparation.

The magic of this dish lies in its ease of preparation and the depth of flavor achieved in just a single skillet. The honey butter garlic sauce infuses the chicken with the perfect balance of sweetness and umami, while the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors as it cooks. It's a win-win for anyone looking to satisfy their taste buds without a complicated process.

Health Benefits of Honey and Garlic

In addition to its delightful taste, this recipe is packed with health benefits, especially from its star ingredients, honey and garlic. Honey is known for its antioxidant properties, helping to fight free radicals in the body. It also provides a natural sweetness that elevates the flavor profile of the dish without relying on refined sugars.

Garlic, on the other hand, is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. It contains compounds that may aid in lowering blood pressure and promoting heart health. This One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice dish allows you to enjoy these health benefits while indulging in a hearty and satisfying meal that's sure to please the whole family.

Customization and Variations

While this recipe shines on its own, it also serves as a fantastic canvas for customization. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli, to elevate the nutritional value and color of the dish. You can also experiment with different proteins; for instance, swap the chicken thighs for chicken breasts or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Moreover, adjusting the seasoning allows you to make the dish your own. If you prefer a kick, adding red pepper flakes or sriracha can introduce a spicy element that pairs beautifully with the sweet honey glaze. The versatility of this one-pan wonder makes it easy to adapt to your family's tastes, ensuring that it remains a regular staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons honey
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Rice

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 teaspoon soy sauce

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready for cooking.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the honey and minced garlic. Stir to combine, then add the chicken thighs. Season with salt and pepper.

Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Rice

In the same skillet, add the rice and stir for a minute. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, and frozen peas. Bring to a simmer.

Combine and Serve

Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and cook on low for 20 minutes until the rice is fluffy. Serve hot and enjoy!

Don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs if desired!

Storing and Reheating

Leftovers from this One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a perfect option for meal prepping or enjoying as quick lunches throughout the week. When stored properly, the flavors develop further, making the next day’s meal just as delicious, if not more!

To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot. This recipe not only provides a scrumptious dinner but can also transform lunch into a delightful dining experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice with a light side salad to balance the meal. Consider a green salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette that complements the flavors of honey and garlic. Alternatively, steamed or roasted vegetables work beautifully, adding texture and color to your plate.

For a more wholesome experience, serve it with crusty bread or warm tortillas to soak up any extra sauce. This helps to enhance the dining experience, making your family dinner feel even more special while ensuring that every last bit of flavor is enjoyed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time as chicken breasts may cook faster.