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Sticky Sweet Bacon Glazed Chicken

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A hands-off slow-cooker dish featuring chicken legs coated in a sweet honey-molasses glaze, topped with crispy bacon for a smoky crunch.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Chicken and glaze ingredients
  • 6 pieces large chicken legs (bone-in, skin-on) Skin may be removed if preferred
  • 1/2 cup ginger honey (or regular honey) Ginger honey adds depth
  • 1/8 cup molasses Gives a dark, caramel-y flavor
  • 1/8 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar) Regular or brown sugar can be used
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (low-sodium optional) Adjust seasoned salt accordingly if using low-sodium
  • 1 tsp sriracha Adjust to taste for spiciness
  • 1 tsp grated fresh ginger For added flavor
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp water To create a slurry
  • Seasoned salt (or salt + pepper + garlic powder, to taste)
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped Thick-cut recommended for more flavor
  • 1/4 cup honey (extra for finishing, optional) For additional gloss
  • 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Method
 

Preparation of sauce
  1. Combine the cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Stir to make a smooth slurry and set aside.
  2. In a small pot, add the ginger honey, molasses, sugar, soy sauce, grated ginger, and sriracha. Stir to combine.
  3. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
  4. Remove the pot from heat and whisk in the cornstarch slurry. The sauce will thicken as it cools. Set aside.
Cooking the chicken
  1. Line your slow cooker with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
  2. In a bowl, season the chicken legs with seasoned salt (or salt, pepper, and garlic powder) to taste. Rub briefly so the seasoning adheres.
  3. Place the seasoned legs into the slow cooker and pour the prepared glaze evenly over the chicken.
  4. Add 1/2 cup of water to the cooker to keep things moist and prevent scorching.
  5. Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 hours, or until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and is tender.
  6. While the chicken cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon, and cook until crisp.
  7. Transfer the crisp bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble it.
Finishing touches
  1. When the chicken is done, spoon extra glaze from the slow cooker over the legs.
  2. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top and brush with a bit more honey for extra shine and sweetness.
  3. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gSodium: 1200mgSugar: 10g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Can freeze cooked chicken in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes. For crisp skin, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
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