The aroma of Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that says, “Dinner is ready!” Imagine tender chicken infused with smoky bacon, sweet brown sugar glistening like sunshine, and the comforting scent of garlic dancing in the air. It’s not just food; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for those cozy nights when all you want is to curl up with something delicious. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. It takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the room and plates were piled high with comfort food. Every bite of this chicken is like a trip down memory lane—full of flavor and love. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish promises to elevate any occasion and leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish combines sweet and savory flavors into an irresistible blend that makes meal prep effortless.
- The enticing aroma fills your home, making it hard to resist.
- It’s visually appealing with its golden glaze and crispy bacon bits.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many people you’re feeding.
- Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor; it’ll add a delightful crunch and smokiness.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic infuses the sauce beautifully.
- Brown Sugar: The star of the show! It creates that caramelized sweetness that balances out the saltiness of the bacon.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to better control the overall saltiness in your dish.
- Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds just the right amount of heat to balance the sweetness.
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
Gather all your ingredients and chop your bacon into bite-sized pieces. You’ll want everything ready because this dish comes together quickly!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Once done, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Don’t even think about discarding that delicious bacon grease; we will use it!
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet with some remaining bacon grease (yes!), sear each chicken breast until golden brown on both sides. This step adds depth and flavor to your dish.
Step 4: Mix Your Sauce
In a bowl, combine brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir until well mixed; it should be sticky and sweet.
Step 5: Assemble in Slow Cooker
Place seared chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour that luscious brown sugar garlic mixture over them evenly. Top with crispy bacon bits like they’re confetti!
Step 6: Slow Cook Away
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 4-6 hours or high for about 2-3 hours. The longer you cook it on low, the more tender your chicken will be.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve alongside rice or roasted veggies for an unforgettable meal!
You Must Know
- This slow cooker bacon brown sugar garlic chicken recipe offers a blend of savory and sweet flavors.
- The ease of preparation with minimal cleanup makes it a go-to for busy weeknights.
- Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For the best results, start by browning the bacon in your slow cooker. Once crispy, remove it and sear the chicken in the rendered fat. This step enhances flavor, while you prepare your sauce with garlic and brown sugar, creating culinary magic.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Swap out chicken thighs for breasts or use turkey bacon for a lighter option. Add some heat with red pepper flakes or toss in vegetables like bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals until warmed through, or gently heat on the stove to keep that mouthwatering flavor intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, ensure it’s at least 165°F internally; use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Don’t rush the browning process; letting the bacon crisp adds depth of flavor.
- Allow the chicken to rest before serving to retain its juiciness.
I once made this slow cooker bacon brown sugar garlic chicken for a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than my hopes of dieting! Everyone raved about it, especially my uncle who swore he could eat it every day.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
To prepare Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, you will need chicken thighs, bacon, brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and chicken broth. Additionally, include onion and black pepper for added flavor. These ingredients come together to create a deliciously sweet and savory dish that will please your taste buds. Make sure to use fresh garlic and high-quality bacon for the best results. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots if you want to enhance the meal further.
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 in your slow cooker. The cooking time may vary based on your specific slow cooker model and the thickness of the chicken thighs used. Always ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption. Plan ahead so that you can enjoy this flavorful dish when it’s perfectly cooked.
Can I make Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken ahead of time. To do this, simply marinate the chicken with all the ingredients the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, transfer everything to your slow cooker and set it to cook while you’re away. try beef cube steak This makes for an easy weeknight dinner solution or an effortless meal for gatherings. The flavors will deepen as they marinate overnight, resulting in an even more delicious dish.
What should I serve with Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over cooked rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad complement this dish well too. pair it with chicken salad For a heartier option, mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes would be delightful choices as well. Choose sides based on your preference to create a delicious and balanced meal.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken :
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines sweet and savory flavors effortlessly. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker model and consider making this dish ahead of time for convenience. Enjoy experimenting with sides that suit your taste preferences, ensuring a delightful dining experience each time you prepare this recipe.
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, crispy bacon, and a luscious garlic-brown sugar sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone asking for more. With minimal prep time and effortless slow cooking, this comforting meal is truly a winner!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and save the grease.
- In the same skillet, sear each chicken breast in the remaining bacon grease until golden brown on both sides.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper until combined.
- Place seared chicken in the slow cooker and pour the sauce evenly over it. Top with crispy bacon bits.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
- Serve with rice or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (170g)
- Calories: 405
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
