One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice



When you want a wholesome, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this One-Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken & Rice is the perfect solution. It’s lightly sweet, rich with garlic flavor, and balanced with protein and carbs — all cooked in a single pan for minimal cleanup.

This recipe is family-friendly, meal-prep approved, and easily adaptable for a healthier lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • ✅ One pan = easy cleanup

  • ✅ High in protein

  • ✅ Naturally sweetened with honey

  • ✅ Perfect for busy weeknights

  • ✅ Comfort food made lighter

Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp butter (use light butter if preferred)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp raw honey

  • 1 tbsp soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce)

  • ½ tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • Salt to taste

For the Rice

  • 1 cup long-grain brown rice (or basmati)

  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

  • ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

Optional Add-ins

  • Steamed broccoli, peas, or carrots

  • Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sear the Chicken
    Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Sear both sides until golden (about 3–4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

  2. Make the Sauce
    In the same pan, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in honey and soy sauce, letting it gently bubble.

  3. Add the Rice
    Add rice, chicken broth, and dried herbs. Stir well so the rice absorbs the sauce.

  4. Combine & Cook
    Place the chicken back on top of the rice. Cover and simmer on low heat for 18–25 minutes, or until rice is tender and chicken is fully cooked.

  5. Rest & Serve
    Let rest for 5 minutes. Fluff rice gently, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Healthy Tips & Swaps

  • 🥗 Use brown rice for extra fiber

  • 🧄 Add more garlic for immune support

  • 🧈 Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version

  • 🌶️ Add chili flakes if you like heat

Nutrition Highlights (Approx. Per Serving)

  • Protein: 28–32g

  • Calories: ~420

  • Balanced carbs & healthy fats

  • No deep frying

Perfect For:

  • Busy weeknight dinners

  • Meal prep lunches

  • Clean eating plans

  • Family-friendly meals


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