Sticky Slow Cooker Bacon Glazed Chicken Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

Tips for success

If you prefer a caramelized finish on your chicken, you can transfer the cooked drumsticks to a baking sheet and place them under a broiler for 2 to 3 minutes after the slow cooker cycle is finished.

This creates a slightly charred, crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender meat. Watch the chicken closely during this step to prevent the sugars in the barbecue glaze from burning, as they can transition from caramelized to burnt very quickly.

For a more complex flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of brown sugar to your glaze before coating the chicken. The acidity helps balance the richness of the bacon, while the extra sugar promotes better caramelization.

These small additions can elevate a simple store-bought sauce into something that tastes like it was prepared from scratch. Adjust these additions based on your personal preference for sweetness or tanginess, ensuring the glaze remains thick enough to coat the drumsticks.

Variations

• Spicy Bacon Glaze: Add two tablespoons of hot sauce or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the glaze before cooking to introduce a spicy kick that cuts through the richness of the bacon.
• Maple Bacon Chicken: Stir two tablespoons of pure maple syrup into the barbecue glaze. The sweetness of the maple syrup pairs perfectly with the salty bacon, creating a sophisticated sweet-and-savory flavor profile.

Storage and make-ahead

Fridge

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheat

Reheat in a microwave at medium power or in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the chicken has cooled to room temperature for no more than 2 hours before placing it in the fridge. When storing, keep the chicken in the remaining glaze to help it retain moisture. For the best quality, consume within 48 hours, as the texture of the meat and the consistency of the glaze are at their peak during this window.

This dish is excellent for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the chicken and glaze in the slow cooker bowl the night before and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply place the bowl into the slow cooker base and start the cooking cycle. Remember to add an extra 30 minutes to the total cook time to account for the chill of the ingredients, ensuring the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving ideas

Serve this chicken with sides that can soak up the extra glaze, such as creamy mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a crisp coleslaw. The contrast between the hot, sticky chicken and a cold, crunchy salad creates a balanced dining experience.

If serving for a larger group, place the drumsticks on a large platter and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to add a pop of color that brightens the deep, dark tones of the bacon barbecue glaze.

When plating, provide extra napkins, as the sticky nature of the glaze is part of the experience. You may also want to serve a small bowl of the reduced cooking juices on the side for dipping.

This allows guests to control the amount of glaze they add to their individual portions. Ensure the chicken is served warm, as the glaze thickens significantly as it cools, which can change the mouthfeel of the dish if left out for too long on the table.

Frequently asked questions

Recipe card

Sticky Slow Cooker Bacon Glazed Chicken

Prep 10 minCook 4 hRest 5 minTotal 4 h 15 minServes 4

Ingredients

• 8 pieces chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup barbecue bacon glaze, store-bought or made ahead

Instructions

1. Place the chicken drumsticks into the base of the slow cooker. Ensure they are arranged in an even layer to promote consistent cooking throughout the process. Do not overcrowd the cooker; if necessary, use a larger model to maintain air circulation. Pour the barbecue bacon glaze over the chicken, using a spoon to coat every piece thoroughly so that the flavors penetrate the meat during the long, slow cook time.
2. Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat for 4 hours. Allow the chicken to simmer undisturbed, which allows the collagen in the drumsticks to break down, resulting in the signature tender texture. The glaze will thicken as it reduces, creating a rich, sticky consistency that clings to the meat. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this releases heat and moisture, which can significantly increase total cooking time.
3. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), carefully remove the drumsticks using tongs. Place them onto a warm serving plate. Allow the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to ensure the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Use a fork to test the tenderness; the meat should pull away from the bone with minimal effort, confirming it is cooked perfectly and ready for the table.

Contains: gluten

Estimated nutrition per serving

Calories

380

Protein

28 g

Carbohydrates

22 g

Fat

20 g

Fiber

0.5 g

Sugar

18 g

Sodium

850 mg

Automatic estimate from the ingredient list, not laboratory-verified.