Save Imagine a dinner that brings the vibrant flavors of your favorite takeout straight to your kitchen with minimal cleanup. This One Pan Honey Garlic Chicken Broccoli Rice is a game-changer for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken, aromatic rice, and crisp broccoli in a single skillet drenched in a glossy, savory-sweet sauce.
Save The secret to this dish lies in the sequence of cooking. By searing the chicken first and then simmering the rice in a savory broth enriched with soy sauce and sesame oil, every grain becomes infused with deep, garlicky flavor. The broccoli is steamed right on top at the very end, ensuring it stays bright green and perfectly tender-crisp.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 2 cups (175 g) broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 3 green onions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
- 3 tbsp honey
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 cups (480 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil, then add chicken pieces. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly golden (they do not need to be fully cooked through).
- Step 3: Combine Grains and Veggies
- Add rinsed rice, carrots, and most of the green onions to the pan. Stir to combine.
- Step 4: Add Liquids
- Pour the sauce and chicken broth into the pan, mixing well. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Step 5: First Simmer
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Step 6: Steam the Broccoli
- After 15 minutes, quickly lift the lid and scatter broccoli florets evenly over the rice (do not stir). Replace the lid and cook for another 8-10 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Step 7: Rest and Fluff
- Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff rice gently with a fork.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and reserved green onions.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For more heat, add 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper to the sauce mixture before cooking. Ensure the rice is thoroughly rinsed before adding it to the pan to achieve the fluffiest possible texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this with brown rice, substitute the white rice, increase the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups, and increase the initial simmering time to 35-40 minutes before adding the broccoli. You can also add snap peas or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Serviervorschläge
This one-pan meal pairs exceptionally well with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. Serve immediately while steaming hot, and don't skip the extra green onions for a fresh crunch.
Save Whether you are looking for an easy meal prep solution or a fast family dinner that everyone will love, this honey garlic chicken and rice is sure to become a staple in your rotation. It’s savory, sweet, and satisfyingly simple—the perfect antidote to a long day.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice works well in this dish. Increase the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups and extend the initial simmer time to 35-40 minutes before adding the broccoli florets. Brown rice requires more liquid and longer cooking time to become tender.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
Snap peas, bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms make excellent additions. Add heartier vegetables like carrots or bell peppers during the initial simmer with the rice, but add quick-cooking vegetables like snap peas when you add the broccoli.
- → Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely. Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the honey garlic sauce mixture for gentle heat. For more spice, you can also add sliced fresh chili peppers or a drizzle of sriracha when serving.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
The dish can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce in place of regular soy sauce. Double-check all other ingredients, especially the chicken broth, to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to refresh the rice. The flavors often improve overnight as the rice absorbs more sauce.
- → Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken breasts work perfectly. Cut them into 1-inch pieces as directed. Breasts cook slightly faster than thighs and are leaner, but both remain tender when simmered in the flavorful broth.