One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice Recipe

Make dinner easy and delicious with One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice, a smoky, sweet, and perfectly cooked dish that brings bold flavors and comforting warmth together in just one pan. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs infused with a chipotle-honey glaze alongside fluffy, flavorful rice, making it a weeknight favorite that requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for the family or a cozy dinner at home, this dish delivers that satisfying craving for something hearty and vibrant in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity in One Pan: This recipe combines protein, carbs, and sauce in a single dish without extra pots or pans to clean.
• Balanced Flavor Profile: The smoky heat of chipotle perfectly complements the natural sweetness of honey for a delicious contrast.
• Time-Saving: Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings without sacrificing taste.
• Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser that suits both kids and adults with mild spice and comforting rice.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt with different vegetables or spice levels to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients, each playing a unique role to bring together this irresistibly tasty dish. Fresh chicken thighs provide juicy meat, while chipotle peppers add smoky depth, honey balances with sweetness, and rice absorbs all the incredible flavors for a perfect texture and color contrast.

• Chicken Thighs: Use bone-in, skin-on for maximum juiciness and crispy skin texture.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: Adds a smoky, mildly spicy kick that’s rich and flavorful.
• Honey: Provides a natural sweetness that balances the heat from chipotle.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Absorbs the sauce and cooks fluffy without sticking.
• Chicken Broth: Enhances the rice flavor and keeps the whole dish moist.
• Garlic & Onion: Classic aromatics that lay the flavor foundation.
• Olive Oil: Helps crisp the chicken skin and sauté aromatics.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring everything together perfectly.
• Lime Juice (optional): Adds a fresh, zesty finish to brighten the dish.

Variations for One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it based on your pantry staples, dietary needs, or flavor preferences. Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own every time you cook it.

• Spicy Boost: Add extra chipotle peppers or cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
• Vegetable Upgrade: Toss in bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added color and nutrition.
• Low-Carb Swap: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
• Protein Alternatives: Use chicken breasts, turkey thighs, or even tofu for different textures.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, but double-check broth labels to keep it safe.

How to Make One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Chipotle Honey Sauce

Combine chipotle peppers in adobo, honey, lime juice (if using), garlic, and a pinch of salt in a blender or bowl. Blend until smooth to create a smoky-sweet sauce that will coat the chicken and flavor the rice throughout cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then place skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for 3-4 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Toast Rice

In the same pan, add diced onions and garlic; sauté until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the uncooked rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains, which adds a subtle nutty flavor and prevents mushiness.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Broth

Pour the chipotle honey sauce into the pan with the rice. Stir well to combine. Then slowly add chicken broth, stirring to evenly distribute the liquid. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Cook Chicken and Rice Together

Carefully nestle the seared chicken thighs back into the pan, skin-side up, on top of the rice. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook undisturbed for about 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, remove from heat and let it rest covered for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for a pop of freshness before serving.

Pro Tips for Making One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice

• Use Bone-in Chicken: It stays juicy longer and adds richness to the dish.
• Don’t Skip Searing: Getting crispy skin before simmering adds essential texture and flavor.
• Measure Rice Exactly: Too much liquid can make rice mushy; too little leaves it undercooked.
• Cover Properly: A tight-fitting lid traps steam and cooks the rice evenly.
• Let It Rest: Resting after cooking helps flavors meld and keeps moisture locked in.

How to Serve One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice

Garnishes

Top with freshly chopped cilantro, slices of avocado, or a squeeze of lime for bursts of color and brightness that enhance the smoky-sweet flavors. Sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds or cotija cheese for added texture and richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or grilled corn on the cob complement the flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in rustic cast iron skillets to keep the dish warm and showcase the beautiful glaze on the chicken. For a family-style dinner, garnish the one pan dish directly before bringing it to the table, letting everyone help themselves to the vibrant combination.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish before storing to preserve texture and flavor.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain quality.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice has dried out. Cover while reheating to keep moisture locked in and avoid drying the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, but chicken breasts may dry out faster; adjust cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking and consider brining them beforehand.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild smoky heat from the chipotle peppers, which can be adjusted by the amount of chipotle you use or omitted for less spice.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your chicken broth and any other ingredients are labeled gluten-free, as the recipe itself contains no gluten.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe since it cooks evenly and absorbs the sauce well without becoming mushy.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor—just add them during the cooking process as appropriate.

Final Thoughts

One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice is truly a game-changer for anyone craving a simple, flavor-packed meal that comes together quickly. The harmony of smoky chipotle, sweet honey, and tender chicken with fluffy rice makes it a satisfying dish to share with loved ones. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting magic of a home-cooked meal without the fuss!

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