Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

why make this recipe

Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops are a fun and tasty treat that combines the savory flavor of chicken, the crunchiness of bacon, and the sweetness of chili sauce. They make a perfect snack for parties, game days, or just a family dinner. Everyone loves the unique lollipop shape, and they are easy to eat with your hands. You’ll impress your friends and family with this flavorful dish!

how to make Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Ingredients

• 10–12 chicken drumsticks, skin on
• 10–12 strips thick-cut bacon
• 1–2 tablespoons neutral oil or melted ghee
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose or sweet chili seasoning blend
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Toothpicks, optional, for securing bacon
• 240 millilitres sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper, optional

Directions

1. Using kitchen shears, cut around the knuckle end of each drumstick. Push the meat down toward the base to create a compact lollipop shape. Trim off excess skin and exposed tendons for a clean presentation.
2. Pat the drumsticks dry with paper towels. Brush each one with oil or melted ghee.
3. In a small bowl, mix the seasoning blend, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coat the meat on all sides, avoiding the bone.
4. Wrap each drumstick with one strip of bacon, starting at the meaty end and spiraling upward. Tuck the end underneath or secure it with a toothpick, making sure to cover the meat while leaving the bone exposed.
5. Preheat the smoker to 135°C. Use cherry or apple wood for extra flavor. If using a gas grill, set it up for two-zone heat.
6. Arrange the bacon-wrapped drumsticks on the smoker grates, spacing them out. Smoke for 90–120 minutes until the bacon is crisp and the internal chicken temperature reaches 74°C.
7. While the chicken smokes, melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for 1–2 minutes. Stir in sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and optional crushed red pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
8. When the chicken reaches 68–71°C, brush generously with glaze. Continue smoking until the internal temperature is 74–80°C and the bacon is fully crisp, about 10–15 minutes more.
9. Remove from the smoker. Brush with an additional layer of glaze and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, lime wedges, and extra glaze for dipping. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds.

how to serve Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Serve Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops on a large platter. You can add fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for garnish. Provide lime wedges and extra sweet chili sauce for dipping. These lollipops are great for parties or casual get-togethers.

how to store Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

To store left-over Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 180°C until heated through, or use an air fryer for a crispy finish.

tips to make Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

• Use thick-cut bacon for a better texture and flavor.
• Don’t skip the seasoning on the chicken; it adds a lot of taste.
• If you want spicier lollipops, add more crushed red pepper to the glaze.
• Make sure to check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is cooked properly.

variation

You can customize the glaze by adding pineapple juice or teriyaki sauce for a tropical twist. For a smoky flavor, try adding some smoked salt to the chicken before wrapping it with bacon.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs or wings if you prefer.

Is there a way to make this recipe without a smoker?
Yes! You can bake these in the oven at 200°C for about 40-50 minutes until fully cooked and crisp.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the glaze a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before using.

Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

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• Author: recipesforcook
• Total Time: 135 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A fun and tasty treat combining savory chicken and crunchy bacon with a sweet chili kick, perfect for parties or family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10–12 chicken drumsticks, skin on
• 10–12 strips thick-cut bacon
• 1–2 tablespoons neutral oil or melted ghee
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose or sweet chili seasoning blend
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Toothpicks, optional, for securing bacon
• 240 millilitres sweet chili sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or ghee
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper, optional

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Instructions

1. Using kitchen shears, cut around the knuckle end of each drumstick, pushing the meat down toward the base to form a lollipop shape.
2. Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels and brush with oil or melted ghee.
3. Mix the seasoning blend, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a small bowl and coat the chicken.
4. Wrap each drumstick with a strip of bacon, securing it if necessary, leaving the bone exposed.
5. Preheat the smoker to 135°C. Arrange the bacon-wrapped drumsticks on the smoker grates and smoke for 90–120 minutes until done.
6. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat; sauté garlic and ginger for 1–2 minutes. Add sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, vinegar, and optional crushed red pepper; simmer for 3–5 minutes.
7. When chicken reaches 68–71°C, brush with glaze and continue smoking until the chicken is fully cooked and bacon is crisp, about 10–15 minutes more.
8. Remove from smoker, brush with more glaze, and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use thick-cut bacon for better texture. Check internal temperature for proper cooking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Smoking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 lollipop
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 100mg