BBQ Chicken & Rice

Tender Grilled Chicken with Barbecue Sauce.

BBQ Chicken & Rice:

This BBQ Chicken & Rice dish combines smoky, flavorful grilled chicken glazed with your favorite barbecue sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. It’s a simple, hearty meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout.

Ingredients:

For the BBQ Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for more flavor)
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (optional for extra smokiness)

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 2 cups water or chicken broth (for more flavor)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:

• In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil.
• Add the rice, olive oil (or butter), and a pinch of salt.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes (check the rice package instructions), until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
• Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.

2. Prepare the BBQ Chicken:

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
• Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
• Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is cooked through.
• In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce and allow it to caramelize on the grill for a few moments.
• Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

3. Assemble the Dish:

• Serve a generous scoop of the cooked rice on each plate.
• Slice the grilled BBQ chicken and place it on top of the rice.
• Drizzle a little more BBQ sauce over the chicken for extra flavor, if desired.

Tips & suggestions:

• Add Veggies: For added nutrition, serve with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, corn on the cob, or a side salad.
• Extra Flavor: Mix some chopped cilantro, green onions, or shredded cheese into the rice for more flavor and texture.
• Rice Variations: Use brown rice or quinoa as a healthier option, or try cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• BBQ Sauce Options: Experiment with different BBQ sauce flavors such as sweet, spicy, or smoky to match your taste preferences.

Enjoy your meal!