Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is an irresistibly flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of brown sugar, the savory richness of bacon, and the boldness of garlic. This easy, hands-off meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting and delicious dinner with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker do all the work.
- Incredible Flavor – The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.
- Minimal Prep Time – No need for extensive chopping or pre-cooking.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats beautifully.
- Versatile – Pairs well with a variety of side dishes, from mashed potatoes to roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Bacon, cut into pieces
- Brown sugar
- Garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper
- Soy sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- Paprika (optional, for a smoky touch)
Directions
- Prepare the Chicken – Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
- Wrap or Layer with Bacon – Wrap each chicken piece with bacon or layer bacon strips on top.
- Make the Sauce – In a bowl, mix brown sugar, garlic, and soy sauce (if using).
- Assemble in Slow Cooker – Place the chicken in the slow cooker and pour the brown sugar mixture over it.
- Cook – Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Serve – Spoon the delicious sauce over the chicken before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (low setting) or 3 hours 10 minutes (high setting)
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Herb Infusion – Sprinkle with rosemary or thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Honey Glaze – Substitute part of the brown sugar with honey for a richer sweetness.
- Crispier Bacon – Transfer to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months.
- Reheating – Warm in a microwave or oven at 350°F until heated through.
FAQs
How do I prevent the bacon from becoming too soft?
If you prefer crispy bacon, broil the chicken for a few minutes after slow cooking.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs work great and remain extra juicy.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, cook on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-7 hours.
What side dishes pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad complement this dish well.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, you can add carrots, potatoes, or green beans for a complete meal.
Will turkey bacon work instead of regular bacon?
Yes, but it may not be as crispy or flavorful as pork bacon.
Can I make this dish in the oven?
Yes, bake at 375°F for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the slow cooker in the last 30 minutes.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate extra portions.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is an easy, delicious meal that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just looking for a new slow cooker favorite, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the sweet, savory, and smoky goodness with your favorite sides!
Print
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This dish combines tender chicken thighs wrapped in smoky bacon, sweetened with brown sugar, and infused with aromatic garlic. It’s an effortless slow cooker meal that delivers rich flavors with minimal preparation
Ingredients
- 5 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 10 slices of bacon
- 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Season them with minced garlic, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each seasoned chicken thigh with two slices of bacon, covering as much surface as possible.
- Add Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the packed brown sugar evenly over the bacon-wrapped chicken thighs.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Cook on the low setting for 8-9 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Optional Browning: If desired, for a caramelized finish, place the cooked chicken thighs on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken thighs are arranged in a single layer in the slow cooker for even cooking.
- If your slow cooker tends to run cooler and the chicken isn’t as caramelized as desired, the optional broiling step can enhance the appearance and flavor.
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