One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and requires minimal cleanup, you’ve found it! This One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. is the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and spicy, all rolled into a single meal that will impress your family and friends. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its delicious flavors but also in its simplicity; everything cooks together in one pan, creating a harmonious medley of tastes and textures. Let’s dive into why this dish stands out, what you’ll need, and how to make it!
Why This One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. Stands Out
This One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. is a standout for several reasons. First, the combination of honey and chipotle creates a unique balance of sweetness and heat that tantalizes the taste buds. The use of chicken thighs or breasts ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavorful, while the addition of basmati rice makes this dish hearty and satisfying. Plus, the vibrant colors from the zucchini and the golden chicken make it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. And let’s not forget the ease of preparation—everything cooks in one pan, which means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
What Goes In
To create this delicious One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice., you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs or breasts (skin on or off, depending on your preference)
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped chipotle in adobo
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- 1 3/4 cups dry basmati rice
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 cups sliced/chopped zucchini
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1-3 teaspoons cayenne pepper
- 3/4 teaspoon chipotle chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Sea salt (to taste)
Gear Up: What to Grab
Before you start cooking your One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice., gather the following gear:
- Large skillet or sauté pan: A good-quality, heavy-bottomed skillet works best for even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements will ensure perfect flavor balance.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping the garlic and zucchini.
- Serving dishes: To beautifully present your dish when it’s ready to serve.
One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice.: How It’s Done
Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to make your One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken thighs or breasts dry with paper towels. This will help them sear better. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped chipotle in adobo, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic, lemon zest, and a generous pinch of sea salt. Mix well and coat the chicken pieces in this flavorful marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you have time.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, skin side down if using skin-on pieces, and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
In the same skillet, melt the salted butter and add the basmati rice, stirring to coat it in the butter. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors left in the pan.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the zucchini to the skillet and stir everything together. Then, pour in 3 1/2 cups of water, honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, and onion powder. Season with sea salt to taste. Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Return the Chicken
Once the mixture is boiling, nestle the seared chicken back into the pan, making sure it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let everything simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 6: Finish Up
After cooking, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice.
Customize for Your Needs
One of the best things about this One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. is its versatility. Here are some ways you can customize it to suit your taste:
- Swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- Add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Adjust the heat by using more or less chipotle in adobo and cayenne pepper.
- For a creamy texture, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving.
Cook’s Commentary
This One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. is an excellent choice for busy weeknight dinners. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and the one-pan approach makes cleanup a breeze! I love how the chicken becomes infused with the sweet and smoky sauce while the rice absorbs all those delicious juices. Feel free to get creative with the veggies or spices based on what you have on hand. This dish is truly about making it your own!
Shelf Life & Storage
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring it back to life!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of water, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with chickpeas or your favorite plant-based protein and follow the same cooking instructions.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for added crunch.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken in advance. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best flavor and texture.
Before You Go
Thank you for joining me in exploring this delightful One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice. recipe! I hope it finds a cherished spot in your weeknight dinner rotation. The blend of flavors and the ease of preparation will make it a favorite for anyone who tries it. Don’t hesitate to share your own variations or any tips you discover along the way. Happy cooking!
One Pan Chipotle Honey Chicken and Rice.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by patting your chicken thighs or breasts dry with paper towels. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chopped chipotle in adobo, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic, lemon zest, and sea salt. Mix well and coat the chicken pieces in this flavorful marinade. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and sear for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the salted butter and add the basmati rice, stirring to coat it. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes.
- Add the zucchini to the skillet and stir. Then, pour in 3 1/2 cups of water, honey, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, chipotle chili powder, and onion powder. Season with sea salt to taste. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, nestle the seared chicken back into the pan, making sure it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- After cooking, remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese, and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate longer if possible.
- You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- This dish is versatile; feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
