If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet incredibly simple to prepare, Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice is exactly what you need. This meal combines tender, juicy chicken thighs coated in a smoky, sweet honey butter glaze, paired perfectly with fragrant jasmine rice infused with fresh herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast, this recipe brings comfort and sophistication to your table with every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and balanced flavors: The smoky paprika and sweet honey butter create a mouthwatering contrast that elevates the chicken thighs.
- Juicy, tender chicken: Skin-on, bone-in thighs stay moist during cooking, delivering maximum flavor and texture.
- Herbed jasmine rice: Fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and fresh herbs complements the chicken beautifully.
- Simple ingredients: With pantry staples and fresh herbs, this recipe is easy to pull together without any fuss.
- One-pan cooking potential: You can cook the chicken and rice together for less cleanup and more convenience.
What You’ll Need
- 4 chicken thighs, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika – adds a rich smoky flavor
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – for a savory depth
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – complements the garlic
- 1/4 cup honey – balances the smoky spices with sweetness
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – creates the luscious honey butter glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups jasmine rice – fragrant and fluffy
- 4 cups chicken broth – infuses the rice with savory flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – fresh and vibrant herb
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped – adds an earthy note
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped – aromatic and piney
Essential Tools for Success
- Large skillet or cast-iron pan: Perfect for searing chicken thighs to crispy perfection.
- Medium saucepan: For cooking the herbed jasmine rice evenly.
- Mixing bowl: To combine the honey butter glaze ingredients smoothly.
- Sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping fresh herbs.
- Tongs: To safely flip the chicken thighs without piercing the skin.
Make Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice: A Simple Method
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This spice blend gives the chicken its signature smoky and savory flavor.
Step 2: Make the Honey Butter Glaze
In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with honey until smooth. This glaze will coat the chicken, creating a sweet and smoky crust as it cooks.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Herbed Rice
In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add jasmine rice, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken with Honey Butter
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared chicken thighs in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet skin-side up. Spread the honey butter glaze evenly over each piece. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
Step 6: Serve
Plate the herbed jasmine rice and top with the smoky honey butter chicken thighs. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Spring–Summer–Fall–Winter Ideas
- Spring: Add steamed asparagus or snap peas for a fresh, crisp side.
- Summer: Serve with a light cucumber and tomato salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Fall: Incorporate roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips alongside the chicken.
- Winter: Pair with sautéed kale or spinach to add warmth and greenery to your plate.
Little Things that Matter
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning ensures a crispy skin.
- Using bone-in, skin-on thighs keeps the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Fresh herbs make all the difference; chop them finely for even distribution in the rice.
- If you want to amp up the smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of chipotle powder to the spice mix.
Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat
This dish stores beautifully. Place leftover chicken and rice in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To freeze, separate the chicken and rice, wrapping each tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
When reheating, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain crisp skin. Reheat rice in the microwave with a splash of water to retain moisture.
Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice Q&A
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless thighs will work, but cooking times will be shorter and the meat may be less juicy. Keep a close eye to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs on hand?
Dried herbs can be used as a substitute. Use about one-third the amount, as dried herbs are more concentrated. Add them to the rice while cooking so they have time to rehydrate.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your chicken broth is gluten-free, as some store-bought brands contain additives.
Can I make this dish in one pan?
Yes! After searing the chicken in a large oven-safe skillet, remove it briefly, cook the rice in the same skillet by adding broth and herbs, then nestle the chicken back on top before baking. This technique saves time and cleanup.
Similar Recipes
- Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit Bake – A comforting casserole layered with tender chicken and buttery biscuits.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Rice Pilaf – Another delicious chicken and rice combo featuring rich garlic butter flavors.
Bring It to the Table
This dish shines on its own but also pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Set the table with warm towels for hands, a chilled white wine, or a sparkling iced tea to complement the smoky-sweet flavors. Whether for family dinners or entertaining guests, Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels both special and satisfying.
Ready to dive in? Gather your ingredients and savor every bite of this irresistible fusion of smoky, sweet, and herbaceous goodness. Your taste buds will thank you!
Share on Pinterest
Smoky Honey Butter Chicken Thighs with Herbed Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with honey until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken thighs skin-side down and sear until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Flip and cook the other side for 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add jasmine rice, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Stir, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seared chicken thighs in a baking dish or oven-safe skillet skin-side up. Spread the honey butter glaze evenly over each piece. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is caramelized.
- Plate the herbed jasmine rice and top with the smoky honey butter chicken thighs. Garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before seasoning ensures crispy skin.
- Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after baking to lock in juices.
- Finely chop fresh herbs for even flavor distribution in the rice.
- For extra smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder to the spice mix.
