Are you in need of a quick and delicious dinner idea that requires minimal effort and cleanup? Look no further! This One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice is the perfect recipe to save you time while delivering big on flavor. Packed with tender chicken, savory BBQ sauce, rice, beans, and corn, this dish is a complete meal in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing for a busy weeknight dinner, this easy-to-make recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
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Why This One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe Works
The beauty of this One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice is that it brings all your favorite BBQ flavors together in one dish. The juicy chicken thighs soak up the tangy BBQ sauce while the rice absorbs all the savory goodness, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. The addition of beans and corn provides a wonderful balance of texture, flavor, and nutrition. Plus, it’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
Ingredients for One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful one-pot meal:
• BBQ Sauce: Adds the essential BBQ flavor that infuses the chicken and rice.
• Chicken Thighs: Boneless and skinless, chicken thighs are juicy and tender, perfect for this dish.
• Onion: Brings a savory sweetness when cooked.
• Garlic: Adds a fragrant depth to the dish.
• Corn: Adds sweetness and texture.
• Black Beans: Offer protein and fiber, making this a more filling meal.
• Short-Grain White Rice: The rice will absorb all the delicious flavors while cooking.
• Chicken Stock: Helps cook the rice and adds richness to the dish.
• Colby Jack Cheese: For a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Avocado, Diced Tomatoes, and Fresh Herbs: These toppings add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re looking for ingredient swaps, here are some ideas:
- Rice Substitute: You can use brown rice instead of white rice, but note it will require a longer cooking time.
- Chicken Breast: If you prefer leaner meat, you can use chicken breasts, though chicken thighs are recommended for their juiciness.
- Beans: Swap black beans for kidney beans, pinto beans, or any beans you prefer.
- BBQ Sauce Variations: If you like spicy, consider using a spicy BBQ sauce. For a smoky flavor, try a smoky BBQ sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions for One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them on both sides. Once the chicken is partially cooked, brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce onto both sides and remove the chicken from the skillet. Set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add Corn and Beans: Stir in the corn and black beans, mixing well to incorporate with the onions and garlic.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rice to the skillet and let it toast for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step enhances the flavor of the rice.
- Combine Liquids: Pour in the chicken stock and add the remaining BBQ sauce. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well-coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook the Dish: Place the browned chicken thighs back into the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Cover and cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Add Cheese and Toppings: Sprinkle shredded colby jack cheese over the chicken and rice, cover the skillet, and let it melt. Once melted, remove from heat. Top with diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, and herbs like cilantro or parsley.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken is fully cooked through before serving. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Flavor Adjustments: You can adjust the sweetness of the dish by choosing a BBQ sauce that suits your taste. If you prefer a spicier version, look for a BBQ sauce with a kick.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Texture: For extra creamy rice, you can add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can easily pair it with a few sides or variations:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple green salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Add Spice: If you love spicy food, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top.
- Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare all the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, making this a great option for meal prepping.
- For a Smokier Flavor: Consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce for an extra smoky flavor.
Why You Should Make One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice
This One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe is not just a convenient dinner option, but it’s also a great way to enjoy all the flavors of BBQ without having to fire up the grill. The tender chicken, flavorful rice, and cheesy finish make this dish both satisfying and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal prepping for the week, this easy one-pot recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.
Conclusion: Enjoy This Easy One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe
This One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe is the ultimate dinner solution for busy weeknights. It combines rich BBQ flavors with tender chicken, hearty rice, and nutritious beans and corn—all cooked together in one pot for a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal planning rotation. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can enjoy a delicious, filling meal without the stress or mess. Give it a try tonight, and experience the magic of one-pot cooking!
FAQs About One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
While chicken breasts can be used in this One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice recipe, we recommend chicken thighs for their juiciness and tenderness. Chicken breasts tend to dry out when cooked in a one-pot dish, but if you prefer breasts, make sure they are thinner cuts to avoid dryness.
Can I make this dish in the oven instead of on the stovetop?
Yes, you can bake this One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), cover the skillet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice and chicken are fully cooked through. Make sure to check for doneness before serving.
What type of BBQ sauce works best for this recipe?
For the best flavor, we recommend using a thicker, sweeter BBQ sauce—like a Kansas City-style BBQ sauce. Avoid mustard-based BBQ sauces, as they can overpower the dish. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce to suit your taste!
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a bit of heat, you can add hot sauce to the BBQ sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top after serving. You could also opt for a spicy BBQ sauce to kick up the flavor and spice level.
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One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
One-Pot BBQ Chicken and Rice is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and delicious BBQ sauce all in one pot. This recipe offers a simple solution for a busy weeknight dinner, packed with protein, fiber, and savory flavors that everyone in the family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup (237 ml) BBQ sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2/3 cup (110 g) frozen corn, thawed
- 1 can (15 oz, 425 g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup (139 g) short-grain white rice (NOT quick/minute rice)
- 3 cups (710 ml) chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup (132 g) freshly shredded colby jack cheese
- Avocado, diced tomatoes, and fresh parsley or cilantro for topping
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then brown them on both sides. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce onto both sides of the chicken while it is browning. Remove the chicken once halfway cooked, about 3-4 minutes, and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2 minutes until softened.
- Stir in thawed corn and black beans. Mix to incorporate with the onions and garlic.
- Add the rice to the skillet and toast it for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the chicken stock and add the remaining BBQ sauce. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Nestle the chicken back into the skillet and cover. Cook for 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Sprinkle shredded colby jack cheese on top of the chicken and rice. Cover again to melt the cheese.
- Remove from heat and top with avocado, diced tomatoes, and parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Make sure to check the doneness of the chicken by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For a spicier version, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes on top.
- If using chicken breasts instead of thighs, ensure they are thinner to avoid dryness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 439
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg