If you’re in the mood for a quick yet delicious weeknight meal, this One-Pan Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Chicken & Rice hits all the right notes. Juicy chunks of chicken are coated in a sweet, tangy, and slightly smoky teriyaki-barbecue glaze, then layered over a bed of fluffy, perfectly cooked rice. Best of all, it comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

This dish is a beautiful fusion of Asian-inspired teriyaki flavors with the boldness of barbecue sauce, making it a family favorite for both adults and kids. The sticky, caramelized sauce clings to the tender chicken pieces, while the rice absorbs all the savory goodness, creating a comforting and satisfying meal with every bite.
Ingredients for this One-Pan Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Chicken & Rice
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
For the Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Sauce:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (or 1/2 tsp ground ginger)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, barbecue sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set aside the cornstarch slurry for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked chicken and stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and continue cooking for 2–3 more minutes until the sauce thickens to a glossy, sticky consistency.
Step 5: Combine with Rice
Lower the heat to low. Add the cooked rice directly to the pan, gently folding it into the sauce and chicken mixture until well combined and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot straight from the skillet for an easy and hearty meal.
Storage Instructions
Let the dish cool completely before storing. Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
For longer storage, this dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.
Estimated Nutrition
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
- Calories: ~480 per serving
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 980mg
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a dash of sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce while cooking.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What rice works best?
White jasmine rice is ideal, but brown rice or even cauliflower rice can be used for a low-carb option.
Can I use bottled teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely. It saves time and still delivers great flavor. Adjust sugar accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check that your barbecue sauce is certified gluten-free.
What vegetables can I add?
Broccoli, snap peas, bell peppers, or shredded carrots are great additions.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh, and follow the same steps.
What’s the best way to meal prep this?
Cook and store the chicken and rice in separate containers, then combine before reheating for a fresher texture.

One-Pan Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Chicken & Rice
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This one-pan wonder combines juicy chicken pieces with a sticky teriyaki-barbecue glaze, all nestled over fluffy rice. It’s quick, hearty, and packed with sweet and savory flavor, perfect for a weeknight family dinner.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
Sticky Teriyaki BBQ Sauce:
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons honey
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients except cornstarch slurry.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and done (6–8 mins).
- Pour in sauce, stir, and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add cornstarch slurry and cook 2–3 more minutes until thickened.
- Add cooked rice, fold gently, and heat through.
- Serve garnished with green onions or sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner