Chicken Bacon Crock Pot
This convenient chicken bacon crock pot recipe combines tender chicken and savory bacon, creating a mouthwatering meal perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Thighs will yield a more tender result.
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces For a lighter option, use turkey bacon.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced For a mellower flavor, consider roasted garlic.
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended) Can substitute with vegetable broth or white wine.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or brown sugar Honey or coconut sugar can also be used.
- 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Chipotle powder can be used for a spicier kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional) For thickening the sauce.
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy but not burnt, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer about 2/3 to the slow cooker, reserving the remaining third for garnish, and leave 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic during the final 30 seconds to prevent burning.
- In the slow cooker, whisk together the chicken broth, maple syrup, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Scrape any browned bits from the skillet into this mixture.
- Add the sautéed onions, garlic, and cooked bacon to the slow cooker. Place the chicken into the liquid mixture, ensuring it's mostly submerged, and tuck in bay leaves.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set to Low for 6-7 hours or High for 3-4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking.
Finishing
- Once cooking is complete, remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Discard the bay leaves.
- For a thicker sauce, whisk the cornstarch slurry into the hot liquid and set the cooker to High for an additional 15 minutes.
- Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker, stir to combine with the sauce, and sprinkle with reserved crispy bacon and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
This chicken bacon crock pot recipe is not only a time-saver but also a flavor enhancer. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or in wraps for a versatile meal.