why make this recipe

Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops are not just a fun and tasty appetizer; they are also a crowd-pleaser! The combination of smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and sweet chili sauce creates a delicious flavor burst that everyone will love. Perfect for parties, game days, or any gathering, these lollipops are sure to impress your guests. They are easy to make and look amazing on any plate.

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:

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 clean presentation.
Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Brush each with oil or melted ghee.
In a small bowl, combine the seasoning blend, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, then coat the meat on all sides, avoiding the bone.
Wrap each drumstick with one strip of bacon, starting at the meaty end and spiraling upward. Tuck the end underneath or secure with a toothpick, covering the meat while leaving the bone exposed.
Preheat the smoker to 135°C. Use cherry or apple wood for enhanced flavor. If using a gas grill, set up for two-zone heat.
Arrange bacon-wrapped drumsticks on smoker grates, spacing them apart. Smoke for 90–120 minutes until bacon is crisp and the internal chicken temperature reaches 74°C.
While chicken smokes, melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, 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.
When chicken reaches 68–71°C, brush generously with glaze. Continue smoking until internal temperature is 74–80°C and bacon is fully crisp, about 10–15 minutes more.
Remove from the smoker. Brush with an additional layer of glaze and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions, lime wedges, and extra glaze for dipping. Optionally, sprinkle with sesame seeds.

how to serve Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Serve these Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops as a fun appetizer at gatherings or as a main dish with sides like coleslaw or potato salad. They can be enjoyed warm, straight off the grill or smoker, and should be served with extra sweet chili sauce for dipping.

how to store Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Leftover Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking tray and warm them in the oven until heated through.

tips to make Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Ensure the chicken is dry before seasoning for a better coating.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach 74°C.
Experiment with different wood chips when smoking for varied flavors.

variation

You can try using different meats, such as chicken thighs or even turkey drumsticks, for a unique twist. Additionally, you can add spices to the sweet chili sauce for extra heat or flavor.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of smoking them?
Yes! You can bake them in the oven at 200°C for about 40–50 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crisp.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken lollipops and wrap them in bacon. Store them in the fridge and then cook when you’re ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian option?
While this recipe is not vegetarian, you could use vegetables like large mushrooms or eggplant, wrapping them in bacon substitute, to create a similar style dish.