The aroma of Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken wafts through the house like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a sweet and savory sauce that makes you feel like you’re dining in a five-star restaurant, all without leaving your cozy kitchen. Creamy Chicken Soup It’s that kind of dish that can turn an ordinary Tuesday night into a culinary adventure filled with laughter and satisfaction.
We all have those moments when we crave comfort food, and this recipe does not disappoint. It brings back memories of family gatherings where the table was laden with deliciousness, and everyone fought over the last piece of chicken. Whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a hectic weeknight, this dish will save the day and tantalize your taste buds like no other.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can set it and forget it while savoring the delightful aromas filling your home.
- The flavor profile combines sweet and savory, creating a taste explosion that leaves everyone wanting more.
- Its visual appeal makes it perfect for impressing guests with minimal effort.
- Versatile enough to serve over rice, noodles, or salad, this dish can adapt to any meal occasion.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Bacon: Crisped up for that smoky goodness; use thick-cut for maximum flavor.
- Brown Sugar: This sweetener creates that caramelized glaze we all crave.
- Fresh Garlic: Use several cloves freshly minced for robust flavor that elevates the dish.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to balance flavors without overwhelming saltiness.
For the Sauce:
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to enhance flavor without adding too much salt.
- Black Pepper: Freshly cracked will elevate the dish’s overall taste profile.
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 Chicken
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Lay them at the bottom of your slow cooker like they’re about to take part in a spa day.
Step 2: Crisp Up That Bacon
In a skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. Once done, chop it into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle it over the chicken like confetti at a party.
Step 3: Create Your Sauce
In a bowl, mix together brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and chicken broth until well combined. This mixture will be the star of our show!
Step 4: Combine Everything
Pour your fabulous sauce over the chicken and bacon in the slow cooker. Make sure every piece is coated because nobody likes an underdressed piece of chicken.
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours or high for about 3 hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show or take a nap; you’ve earned it!
Step 6: Serve It Up
Once done, shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks or simply serve whole pieces if you prefer. Drizzle some sauce over everything before you dig in—it’s like adding sprinkles on top of ice cream!
This Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is truly a meal made in heaven! Perfectly tender chicken drenched in rich flavors awaits you at dinnertime—what could be better? So gather around the table with friends or family, share some laughs, and enjoy every mouthwatering bite!
You Must Know
- This Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken offers more than just delicious flavors; it simplifies dinner prep.
- Customize ingredients based on what you have, and enjoy the vibrant aromas that fill your home.
- It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor before adding it to the slow cooker. While that’s happening, prepare your sauce with the brown sugar and garlic for an aromatic delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your pantry! Try using honey instead of brown sugar, or add a splash of soy sauce for an Asian twist. Honey Glazed Salmon Experiment with different herbs to make this dish truly yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water for moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For an extra crispy finish, broil the chicken for a few minutes after cooking.
- Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for maximum flavor.
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain juices.
When I first made this Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, my family couldn’t stop raving about it! They even asked if I had secretly become a gourmet chef overnight—spoiler alert: I hadn’t!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
To make Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken, gather the following ingredients: chicken thighs or breasts, bacon, brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and black pepper. Optional ingredients include chopped green onions for garnish. These components work together to create a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
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 longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the chicken becomes tender and juicy. Always check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of meat in your Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe. While chicken is the star of this dish, pork chops or even turkey can be great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked through while maintaining that delicious flavor profile.
How can I serve Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken?
Serving suggestions for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken are plentiful! Pair it with steamed rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the delightful sauce. You can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with chopped green onions for an added touch of flavor and color.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken:
In summary, Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a flavorful dish that combines sweet and savory elements perfectly. By using simple ingredients like bacon, brown sugar, and garlic, you create a meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying. This recipe allows flexibility with various meat options and serving styles, making it a versatile choice for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this hearty dish that promises to impress! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Lobster Tail recipe.
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Bacon Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is a deliciously simple dish that combines tender chicken with crispy bacon and a sweet-savory sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. Each bite offers a delightful mix of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then layer them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; chop into pieces and sprinkle over the chicken.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, minced garlic, soy sauce, and chicken broth.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and bacon in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred chicken in the slow cooker or serve whole with sauce drizzled on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: For extra crispiness, broil shredded chicken for a few minutes after cooking. Substitute honey for brown sugar or add ginger for an Asian twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days; reheat gently with added moisture.
