Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Name: Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
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

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: December 10, 2025

Print Recipe

Introduction to Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Picture this: it’s a hectic weeknight, and you’re scrambling to put something delicious on the table. That’s where my Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops come in! They’re not just any appetizer; they’re a flavor explosion that your family will crave. Juicy chicken drumsticks wrapped in crispy bacon and drizzled with a sweet chili glaze make for the perfect quick solution. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply trying to please the kids, this dish is sure to impress and delight. Trust me, these lollipops are about to become your go-to recipe for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

These Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops offer the perfect blend of convenience and flavor. They are easy to prepare, taking just 30 minutes hands-on time. Smoking them brings out a mouthwatering taste that’s hard to resist. Plus, they are a crowd-pleaser at parties or family dinners. Everyone will adore the crispy bacon paired with a sweet and tangy glaze. You’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Ingredients for Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting these flavorful Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken drumsticks: Opt for 10-12 juicy drumsticks; they serve as the lollipop base.
Thick-cut bacon: The star of the show! Its crispiness adds delightful texture and flavor.
Neutral oil or melted ghee: This helps to make sure the seasoning sticks and enhances flavor during cooking.
Sweet chili seasoning blend: A delightful mix that packs a punch. Feel free to make your own with paprika, sugar, and garlic powder if desired.
Garlic powder and smoked paprika: These spices deepen the flavor profile. Smoked paprika adds a subtle, rich hint of smokiness.
Toothpicks: Optional, but they can help secure the bacon in place for a neater presentation.
Sweet chili sauce: This is the magical ingredient that makes everything sticky and sweet. Choose your favorite brand or homemade version.
Honey: A touch of natural sweetness to complement the heat from the chili sauce.
Soy sauce: For umami depth; it perfectly balances the sweetness.
Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar: This enhances the sauce’s flavor with a touch of acidity.
Fresh garlic and ginger: They bring fresh, zesty flavors that elevate the glaze.
Unsalted butter or ghee: Adds richness to the glaze, making it wonderfully luscious.
Crushed red pepper: Totally optional! Add this if you like a spicy kick in your glaze.

For exact measurements, don’t forget to check the end of the article where the quantities are neatly laid out for printing!

How to Make Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Prepare the Chicken Drumsticks

Start by transforming your chicken drumsticks into lollipops! Using kitchen shears, carefully cut around the knuckle end of each drumstick. This allows you to push the meat downward toward the base, creating a compact shape that’s easy to hold. Trim off any excess skin and tendons to ensure a clean presentation. It’s like art in the kitchen, and the kids will love eating these fun-shaped goodies, too!

Season and Wrap

Pat the prepared drumsticks dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the seasoning stick better. Brush each piece with neutral oil or melted ghee for added flavor. In a small bowl, mix your sweet chili seasoning blend, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the mixture, avoiding the bone. Then, wrap each drumstick in a strip of thick-cut bacon, spiraling it up from the meaty end to cover the chicken. Be sure to tuck the end under or secure it with a toothpick.

Set Up the Smoker or Grill

Now that you’ve wrapped those delicious lollipops, it’s time to set up your smoker or grill! Preheat it to 135°C (about 275°F). If you have cherry or apple wood chips, they’ll enhance the flavor beautifully. For gas grills, create a two-zone setup by turning on one side of the burners only. This allows for indirect heating, ensuring your lollipops cook evenly without burning.

Smoke the Lollipops

Arrange your bacon-wrapped drumsticks on the smoker grates, spreading them apart for even cooking. Smoke them for about 90 to 120 minutes. Keep an eye on the temperature; the internal chicken temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). This is crucial for food safety! The bacon should also be crisp and gloriously golden by the time they are done, making your mouth water just thinking about it!

Make the Glaze

While your chicken is smoking, let’s prepare that delicious sweet chili glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt some unsalted butter or ghee. Once melted, add finely minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in sweet chili sauce, honey, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Optional crushed red pepper can add a bit of heat! Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Finish Cooking the Bacon Lollipops

When your chicken is close to being done, it’s time to brush them generously with that glossy glaze you prepared. Continue smoking the lollipops for an additional 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature hits between 74 to 80°C (165 to 175°F) and the bacon is perfectly crispy. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving your Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops a mouthwatering finish.

Rest and Garnish

Once cooked, remove your lollipops from the smoker and give them a little time to rest for about 5 minutes. This lets the juices settle, ensuring those bites are tender and juicy! When serving, garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for color and flavor. Add some lime wedges and extra glaze for dipping—trust me, your guests will be coming back for more!

Tips for Success

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the seasoning blend.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking—aim for at least 74°C (165°F).
Soak your wood chips for the smoker in water for about 30 minutes to extend their smoking time.
Don’t rush the resting time; it helps keep the chicken juicy.
Feel free to experiment with different spices to customize your lollipops!

Equipment Needed for Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Smoker or Grill: Essential for that delicious smoky flavor. You can use a traditional charcoal grill as an alternative.
Kitchen Shears: Great for shaping your chicken into lollipops. A sharp knife works too!
Meat Thermometer: For accurate cooking—consider a simple digital thermometer.
Medium Saucepan: Needed for the sweet chili glaze. A small frying pan is another option.

Variations of Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Spicy Sriracha Twist: Add sriracha to your glaze for an extra kick!
Pineapple Glaze: Mix in crushed pineapple with the sweet chili sauce for a tropical twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken drumsticks with veggie skewers using bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini wrapped in bacon.
Herb-Infused Bacon: Try using bacon infused with herbs like rosemary or thyme for aromatic flavor.
Low-Carb Version: Use turkey bacon and sugar-free sweet chili sauce for a healthier option.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Pair with Fresh Veggies: Serve alongside a crunchy veggie platter for a refreshing contrast.
Dip Delight: Offer various dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo for a fun twist.
Perfect Pairing: Cold craft beers or sparkling lemonade complement these tasty lollipops beautifully.
Presentation Tip: Arrange lollipops on a large platter, garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs for a pop of color.

FAQs about Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops

Can I use chicken thighs instead of drumsticks?
If you’re not a fan of drumsticks, chicken thighs work great too! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly due to size differences. Ensure they reach the proper temperature for safety.

How spicy are these Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops?
The spice level is adjustable! The sweet chili sauce is generally mild, but if you’re sensitive to heat, you can omit the crushed red pepper in the glaze. For extra heat, feel free to add more!

Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season and wrap the chicken the day before and store them in the fridge. Just add some extra time to the cook while smoking, since they’ll be cold when you start.

Are there any gluten-free options for the glaze?
Yes! Make sure to use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in your glaze. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy these delicious lollipops!

Can I bake these instead of smoking them?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 30–40 minutes, basting with the glaze halfway through. They might lack some smoky flavor, but they’ll still be tasty!

Final Thoughts

These Sweet Chili Bacon Lollipops truly bring joy to any gathering, effortlessly combining fun and flavor. Whether it’s a game day snack, a quick weeknight dinner, or a party appetizer, this dish holds a special place in my heart. Each bite is a delightful crunch followed by a burst of sweet and savory goodness. It’s a memory-maker, forging connections with family and friends around the table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the lollipop magic, and prepare for smiles all around. Trust me, once you serve them, you’ll be the culinary hero of the household!