The Irresistible Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

Succulent slow cooker bacon brown sugar garlic chicken promises a mouthwatering journey through comfort food heaven.

Layers of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors dance together in this irresistible dish.

Busy home cooks will adore how effortlessly this recipe comes together with minimal prep.

Kitchen magic happens when simple ingredients transform into a crowd-pleasing meal that sparks conversation.

bacon adds a crispy, rich dimension that makes every bite unforgettable.

Tender chicken emerges perfectly seasoned, practically melting on your fork.

You won’t believe how such uncomplicated ingredients can create such an extraordinary dining experience.

Grab your slow cooker and let’s make dinner dreams come true!

Why Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken in the Slow Cooker Stands Out

• Combine sweet, savory, and smoky tastes without complex cooking techniques, making this dish a culinary adventure for anyone who loves bold flavors.
• Slow cooker method allows you to toss ingredients together and walk away, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals with minimal effort.
• Bacon and brown sugar create an irresistible combination that appeals to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds.
• Serve over rice, in tacos, or alongside vegetables for a flexible dinner option that adapts to your family's preferences and pantry ingredients.

Ingredients for an Unforgettable Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

• Chicken Breasts: Tender cuts of white meat that form the base of this savory and sweet slow cooker dish.

• Bacon: Crispy pork strips that add smoky richness and a crunchy texture to the chicken.
• Brown Sugar: Sweet ingredient that caramelizes and creates a delicious glaze for the chicken.
• Minced Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a sharp and savory flavor profile.

• Soy Sauce: Salty condiment that adds depth and umami to the overall sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Liquid that helps create moisture and additional flavor in the slow cooker.
• Cornstarch: Thickening agent used to transform the cooking liquid into a rich, glossy sauce.

Steps to Easy Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken

Carefully place chicken breasts into the slow cooker.

Trim any excess fat using kitchen scissors or a sharp knife for a leaner dish.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until perfectly crispy.

Transfer bacon to paper towels to drain excess grease, and set aside the bacon fat for extra flavor.

Step 3: Create Flavor Sauce

• Brown sugar
• Minced garlic
• Soy sauce
• Chicken broth

Whisk ingredients together until well blended and smooth.

Step 4: Layer Bacon and Sauce

Pour the flavor sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.

Crumble half the crispy bacon on top of the chicken.

Cover the entire dish with the remaining bacon pieces.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low setting for 6 hours or high setting for 3 hours.

The chicken will become tender and infused with delicious flavors.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove chicken from the slow cooker.

Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of cold water.

Stir the slurry into the cooking liquid to thicken the sauce.

Shred or slice the chicken and generously drizzle with the thickened sauce.

Garnish with additional crumbled bacon if desired.

Kitchen Tips for the Best Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

• Reserve some bacon fat for extra flavor when cooking, adding a rich, smoky depth to the chicken's taste profile.
• Remove excess chicken fat for a leaner dish, but keep enough to maintain moisture and tenderness.
• Whisk cornstarch slurry thoroughly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to the chicken.
• Crumble bacon in two stages to distribute crispy bits evenly, creating a delicious textural contrast throughout the dish.
• Shred or slice chicken based on your preference, allowing the sweet and savory sauce to coat each piece generously.

Storing and Reheating Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

• Transfer leftover chicken to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Wrap shredded or sliced chicken in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze for maximum 3 months, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of chicken broth to maintain moisture. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until heated through.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish, add a splash of chicken broth, cover with foil. Warm for 15-20 minutes, checking temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.

What to Serve with Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

• Savor Flavor-Boosting Pairings: Elevate Your Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
• Roast Vegetable Medley: Caramelize root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips to complement the chicken's sweet and savory profile, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors.
• Creamy Parmesan Risotto: Prepare a rich, velvety risotto that absorbs the chicken's delectable sauce, offering a luxurious counterpoint to the crispy bacon and tender meat.
• Crisp Citrus Salad: Toss mixed greens with orange segments, sliced almonds, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the dish's richness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Wine Pairing Perfection: Choose a medium-bodied Pinot Noir or a slightly sweet Riesling to enhance the chicken's complex flavor profile, balancing the sweet and savory elements with its own nuanced character.

Creative Twists on Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken

• Keto-Friendly Version: Replace brown sugar with erythritol or stevia. Use sugar-free bacon and swap soy sauce for coconut aminos to reduce carbs while maintaining rich flavor.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients are dairy-free. Use ghee or olive oil instead of bacon fat if needed. Verify bacon brand contains no milk derivatives.
• Herb-Infused Variation: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to the sauce mixture. Incorporate dried herbs like oregano or basil for an aromatic Mediterranean-style chicken dish that elevates the classic recipe.
• Spicy Southwest Remix: Mix in chipotle powder or diced green chiles. Sprinkle cayenne pepper for extra heat. Garnish with chopped cilantro to create a zesty southwestern-inspired chicken preparation.

FAQs

• What ingredients make this chicken recipe unique?

The combination of brown sugar, bacon, garlic, and soy sauce creates a sweet and savory flavor profile that transforms ordinary chicken into an extraordinary dish.

• Can I use different cuts of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use chicken thighs or drumsticks instead of chicken breasts. Just adjust cooking time slightly to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.

• Is this recipe considered a healthy meal option?

While delicious, the dish is higher in calories due to bacon and brown sugar. It’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a regular weeknight meal.

• Do I need any special kitchen equipment to make this recipe?

A slow cooker is essential, but you’ll also need a skillet to crisp the bacon and a mixing bowl for preparing the sauce. Standard kitchen tools work perfectly for this recipe.

Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent slow cooker bacon brown sugar garlic chicken brings together sweet and savory flavors in a mouthwatering dish that promises comfort and satisfaction. Effortless preparation and rich layers of taste make this recipe a perfect weeknight dinner you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon

Seasoning and Flavoring:

• 1/2 cup (100 grams) light brown sugar
• 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Liquid Components:

• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons water

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Instructions

1. Arrange chicken breasts in the slow cooker, removing any excess fatty portions for a leaner dish.
2. Crisp bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown and perfectly crunchy. Transfer to paper towels and set aside, preserving a small amount of rendered bacon fat.
3. Whisk together a savory-sweet sauce combining brown sugar, finely chopped garlic, soy sauce, and rich chicken broth in a mixing bowl.
4. Pour the flavor-packed sauce directly over the chicken, ensuring complete coverage.
5. Sprinkle crumbled bacon across the top, creating a delectable crunchy layer.
6. Secure the slow cooker lid and cook on low temperature for 6 hours or high temperature for 3 hours until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
7. Carefully transfer cooked chicken to a serving platter, leaving behind the aromatic cooking liquid.
8. Create a smooth cornstarch slurry and stir into the remaining sauce, heating until it reaches a glossy, thickened consistency.
9. Shred or slice the chicken into succulent pieces, then generously drizzle with the enhanced sauce.
10. Garnish with additional crispy bacon crumbles for extra texture and flavor.

Notes

• Select chicken breasts of uniform thickness to ensure even cooking and prevent dry edges.
• Pat chicken dry before seasoning to help brown sugar and bacon crisp up nicely.
• Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and crunchier texture when crumbled on top.
• Consider reducing sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth for health-conscious eaters.
• Transform dish into keto-friendly version by replacing brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or erythritol.
• Enhance meal prep by freezing cooked chicken in individual portions for quick future meals.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours (on high) or 6 hours (on low)
• Category: Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg