Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Imagine tender chicken, perfectly infused with the crispy essence of bacon, enveloped in a sweet and savory brown sugar garlic sauce that dances on your taste buds. Your kitchen will smell so good that even the neighbors will be knocking at your door, wondering if there’s a culinary party happening inside. For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Now, I remember the first time I made this dish. I had friends over for a casual dinner, and I thought, “Why not impress them with something easy yet delicious?” As the slow cooker worked its magic, I realized I was actually just saving myself from cooking while soaking up compliments like a sponge. cozy lasagna soup in your slow cooker The best part? This recipe is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or feeding a small army at game night.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken offers effortless preparation, allowing you to enjoy more time with loved ones instead of hovering over the stove.
- Each bite bursts with flavors that meld together beautifully, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
- The visual appeal is undeniable; the golden-brown glaze and crispy bacon bits make it irresistible.
- Plus, you can serve it with rice, pasta, or veggies—making it as versatile as your favorite pair of sweatpants!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for juicy results; feel free to adjust based on your hungry crowd.
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum crispiness and flavor infusion into the chicken.
- Fresh Garlic: Opt for firm cloves to bring out bold flavors in your sauce; minced garlic works best.
For the Sauce:
- Brown Sugar: This is the star of our show; use light brown sugar for a hint of caramel sweetness.
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while adding depth to our dish.
- Ground Black Pepper: Just a pinch adds some subtle heat without overwhelming those sweet flavors.
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 gathering all your ingredients. Chop the bacon into small pieces and mince the fresh garlic. You can even pretend you are auditioning for a cooking show while doing this—just don’t forget to smile!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Remove from heat and drain on paper towels. Try not to eat all of it before adding it into the slow cooker—it might be tough!
Step 3: Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Place your chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. In a bowl, combine brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is combined like an old friendship.
Step 4: Add Bacon and Sauce
Pour that delightful sauce over the chicken breasts and sprinkle crispy bacon on top like confetti at a party! Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker on low for about 6 hours.
Step 5: Shred & Serve
When cooking time’s up (and your patience has been tested), remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks—this step always feels oddly satisfying! Stir everything back together in the slow cooker.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Transfer portions onto plates or bowls and drizzle extra sauce over each serving for that final touch. You can serve this with rice or noodles; honestly, you can’t go wrong!
So go ahead and indulge in this Sweet Symphony of Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken! Your taste buds will thank you as you savor every mouthwatering morsel. Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken offers an explosion of flavor with minimal effort.
- The combination of sweet and savory makes it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion.
- Plus, you can set it and forget it, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the bacon in your slow cooker to release its savory goodness. Once crispy, remove it and sear the chicken in the rendered fat for extra flavor. Add garlic, brown sugar, and other ingredients before returning the bacon to finish cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the brown sugar for honey or maple syrup for a different sweet twist. You can also toss in some veggies like bell peppers or onions for added nutrition and color. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When reheating, use a microwave or stovetop on low heat to preserve moisture, adding a splash of chicken broth if it looks dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly cooked Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, make sure to brown your chicken well for enhanced flavor.
- Avoid opening the lid during cooking to maintain moisture levels.
- Finally, let it rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld.
It was my sister’s birthday when I first made this dish. The look on her face as she took that first bite was priceless—like she had just discovered chocolate-covered bacon for the first time!
FAQs :
What ingredients do you need for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
To prepare Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, gather chicken breasts, bacon, brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and black pepper. Optionally, you may want to add green onions for garnish or extra flavor. The combination of sweet brown sugar and savory bacon creates a delicious blend that enhances the chicken’s taste. creamy buffalo chicken mac and cheese Ensure that all your ingredients are fresh for the best results. This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
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. The cooking time may vary based on the thickness of the chicken breasts used. To ensure that the chicken is fully cooked and tender, always check its internal temperature; it should reach at least 165°F (75°C). This slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken moist and flavorful.
Can I substitute any ingredients in this Slow Cooker recipe?
Yes, you can make several substitutions for the Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe. If you prefer turkey or pork, those meats can work well too. Coconut sugar can replace brown sugar for a healthier alternative. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, fresh garlic can be swapped with garlic powder if you’re in a pinch. Experimenting with these substitutions allows you to tailor the dish to your dietary preferences while maintaining its delicious flavor.
What are some side dishes to serve with Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken pairs well with various side dishes that complement its sweet and savory flavors. Consider serving it over rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add freshness and color to your plate. low carb cauliflower mash A simple salad with mixed greens can provide a refreshing contrast as well. You could also enjoy this dish with mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a hearty meal.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken :
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is an easy yet delicious dish that combines savory bacon and sweet brown sugar with tender chicken. With minimal preparation required, this recipe is perfect for busy days when you still want a satisfying meal. Cooking it slowly allows the flavors to develop beautifully, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. perfect chicken salad side dish Whether served over rice or alongside vegetables, this dish will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy this delightful meal any night of the week!
Print
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken with crispy bacon and a rich, sweet-savory sauce. This effortless recipe allows you to set it in your slow cooker and enjoy the tantalizing aroma as it cooks. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice or veggies, ensuring a delightful meal that will impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; drain on paper towels.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper; pour over chicken.
- Sprinkle cooked bacon on top.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Shred the cooked chicken with forks, mix everything together before serving.
Notes
– For a sweeter variation, substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup.
– Add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra nutrition and color.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 240g)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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