why make this recipe

The BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl is a simple and delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, tasty barbecue sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Not only is it easy to make, but it also offers a fantastic balance of flavors and textures, with the crunch of crispy onions and the creaminess of cheese. Plus, you can customize it to suit your taste!

how to make BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl

Ingredients:

2 lbs chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup BBQ sauce
¼ cup honey
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp chili flakes
Salt and pepper
3 cups cooked rice
1 cup corn
½ cup shredded cheese
Crispy onions, for topping

Directions:

In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
Pour half of the sauce mixture into a slow cooker.
Place the chicken in the slow cooker and top it with the remaining sauce.
Cook the chicken on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until it is tender.
After cooking, shred the chicken and stir it back into the sauce to mix well.
Serve the BBQ chicken over cooked rice, adding corn, cheese, and crispy onions on top.

how to serve BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl

Serve the BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl in a large bowl or plate. Start with a generous amount of rice, then spoon the shredded BBQ chicken on top. Add corn and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Finish off with crispy onions for a delightful crunch. This dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed by family and friends alike!

how to store BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl

To store any leftovers, allow the BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl to cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to store the chicken and rice separately to maintain the best texture. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make BBQ Chicken Rice Bowl

Use bone-in chicken thighs for extra flavor and juiciness, or opt for chicken breasts for a leaner option.
Feel free to adjust the amount of BBQ sauce and honey according to your taste preferences.
Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or green onions for more nutrients and color.
If you like it spicy, increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh jalapeños.

variation

For a different twist, try using a different type of sauce, like teriyaki or sweet and sour, instead of BBQ sauce. You can also substitute the chicken with shredded pork or beef for variety. For a vegetarian option, use grilled tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; you may need to cook it longer.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce the day before and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up and serve with rice when ready.

3. What other toppings can I use?
You can add avocado, fresh cilantro, or diced tomatoes as alternative toppings. Experiment with what you enjoy!