Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that will have your taste buds dancing and your heart fluttering. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a sweet and savory sauce, with crispy bacon bits adding a delightful crunch. Crock Pot Chicken Delight The aroma wafting from the slow cooker fills your kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to gather around the table.
This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or when you simply want to indulge after a long day. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and as the chicken simmered away, my excitement grew like a kid waiting for Christmas morning. Cozy Meatballs for Family Dinners Pair it with rice or roasted veggies, and you have a meal that’s both comforting and gourmet.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights.
- The flavor profile balances sweet and savory notes that will please any palate.
- Its visual appeal, with glistening brown sugar glaze and crispy bacon, makes it a showstopper on your dinner table.
- This recipe is versatile enough for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
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Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but feel free to adjust based on how many hungry mouths you need to feed.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch and robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- Brown Sugar: Opt for light brown sugar as it provides the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the dish.
- Fresh Garlic: Use about six cloves for maximum flavor; roasting them in the slow cooker enhances their sweetness.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce works best so you can control the saltiness while still achieving that rich umami flavor.
- Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
For the Sauce:
- Honey: A drizzle of honey complements the brown sugar and adds another layer of sweetness to balance out the savory elements.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your bacon into small pieces—think bite-sized happiness—and set aside. Chop your garlic cloves finely; they’ll be crucial for infusing flavor throughout.
Step 2: Sauté the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook your diced bacon until crispy. This step not only cooks the bacon but also releases those amazing flavors into your pan. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
Step 3: Mix It Up
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and ground black pepper. Stir until well blended into a sticky sauce that smells like pure heaven.
Step 4: Layer It All Together
Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour half of your sauce mixture over the chicken, ensuring each piece gets coated in that sugary goodness.
Step 5: Add Bacon Bliss
Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top of the chicken and pour remaining sauce on top. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
Step 6: Slow Cook It
Set your slow cooker on low for about six hours (or high for three hours if you’re in a hurry). You’ll know it’s done when your chicken shreds easily with a fork—cue happy dance!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite of this Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken!
You Must Know
- This slow cooker bacon sugar garlic chicken brings together savory and sweet in a delightful dance of flavors.
- It’s foolproof for busy weeknights, and the aroma alone will have your family racing to the dinner table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors. While that sizzles away, mix together your brown sugar, garlic, and bacon in a bowl. Once the chicken is nicely browned, pop it into the slow cooker with your sweet mixture for an effortless meal.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Add spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes for an extra kick. You can also toss in some veggies like bell peppers or onions for added nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it in a pan over low heat or use the microwave until heated through to preserve its deliciousness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcrowding the slow cooker; too much chicken can lead to uneven cooking.
- Use fresh garlic for better flavor; dried garlic won’t provide the same punch.
- For crispy bacon bits on top, broil them briefly before serving!
Sometimes, a recipe becomes more than just food; it’s a memory. I still remember my friend’s face when she took her first bite of this dish—pure bliss! It’s moments like these that make cooking worthwhile.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
To prepare Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken, gather boneless chicken breasts, crispy bacon, brown sugar, garlic cloves, soy sauce, and a touch of ginger. Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions can enhance the flavor. Baked Chicken Breast Variations Ensure you have these essential ingredients to create this sweet and savory dish that will delight your taste buds. You will also need salt and pepper for seasoning, so don’t forget those pantry staples as well.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
Cooking Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Remember to check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. Cooking times may vary depending on your specific slow cooker model.
Can I use frozen chicken for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
While using frozen chicken is possible, it’s not recommended for Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken. Frozen meat can take longer to cook thoroughly, which might lead to uneven cooking or food safety issues. It’s best to thaw the chicken in the refrigerator before adding it to your slow cooker. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the sauce.
What sides pair well with Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it with steamed broccoli for a healthy option, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. Additionally, fluffy rice or quinoa can complement the dish nicely. For a light touch, a fresh garden salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken perfectly.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken :
In summary, Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is an easy and flavorful dish that brings together sweet and savory elements. Using simple ingredients like bacon, brown sugar, and garlic creates a delightful meal perfect for any occasion. With minimal prep and cooking time in your slow cooker, this recipe guarantees satisfaction for both family dinners and gatherings. Enjoy this comforting dish alongside your favorite sides for a complete dining experience! For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole Recipe recipe.
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a sticky brown sugar glaze, crispy bacon, and fragrant garlic. This easy-to-make recipe not only fills your home with an irresistible aroma but also provides a comforting meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it alongside rice or roasted vegetables for a deliciously satisfying experience that will please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 6 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; set aside on paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and black pepper until combined.
- Place chicken in the slow cooker and pour half of the sauce over it.
- Top with crispy bacon and pour remaining sauce over everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until chicken shreds easily.
- Serve warm, drizzled with sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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