Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe delightful aroma of sizzling bacon wrapping around juicy chicken can ignite a party atmosphere in no time! My Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops are the ideal party appetizer, effortlessly blending mouthwatering taste with little fuss. These easy finger foods are not only hearty but also perfect for mingling guests who crave something savory and satisfying. Imagine presenting these golden-brown delights, crispy on the outside and tender inside, at your next gathering—crowd-pleasers that are destined to disappear fast! Whether you’re looking to impress at a barbecue or simply elevate an ordinary dinner, this recipe is your go-to solution. Curious about how to make these irresistible treats? Let’s dive in! Why are These Lollipops a Must-Try? Hearty Flavor: Each bite bursts with the smokiness of bacon and the juiciness of chicken, creating a savory sensation that’s hard to resist. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master these delicious appetizers in no time! Party-Ready: Perfect for gatherings, these lollipops are designed for mingling, ensuring your guests can snack and socialize effortlessly. Versatile Options: Feel free to switch things up—try using turkey instead of chicken or add cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Crowd Favorite: They’re sure to disappear quickly, making them a staple at any celebration! Pair them with dipping sauces for more fun. Don’t forget to check out my Bacon Brown Sugar for another delicious twist on finger foods! Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops Ingredients For the Chicken • Chicken Drumsticks – Freshness enhances flavor and ensures juicy meat. • Smoked Paprika – Provides a rich aroma for a savory base; for a milder taste, use regular paprika. For the Bacon • Bacon Strips (not thick-cut) – Thin cut crisps up nicely around the chicken, offering that perfect smokiness. For Seasoning • Coarse Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Adds a delightful kick to each bite; regular black pepper can be a simple substitute. • Garlic Powder – Boosts savory notes; fresh minced garlic gives a more vibrant flavor if desired. • Seasoned Salt – Enhances the overall taste; use regular salt with herbs if you’re out of seasoned salt. For the Glaze • Barbecue Sauce – A sweet and tangy finishing touch; choose your favorite brand or make homemade for a personal flair. Elevate your gatherings with these Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops—a hearty party appetizer that’s bound to impress! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Start by snapping the ends off the chicken drumsticks, exposing the bone to create handles for your lollipops. In a bowl, mix together smoked paprika, freshly cracked black pepper, garlic powder, and seasoned salt. Rub this flavorful mixture generously over each drumstick to ensure every bite of your Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops is bursting with taste. Step 2: Wrap with Bacon Take two strips of thin-cut bacon and wrap them around each seasoned drumstick, making sure the chicken is fully covered and the bacon overlaps slightly for maximum crispness. The bacon should cling well as you secure it around the meat, creating the perfect savory exterior for your lollipops. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy texture when cooked. Step 3: Arrange for Baking Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean-up easier. Carefully place each wrapped drumstick on the sheet, ensuring they have enough space between them for the heat to circulate. This arrangement allows the Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops to cook evenly, promoting the perfect balance of crispy bacon and juicy chicken. Step 4: Bake to Perfection Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once heated, place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the lollipops for about 35 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should emerge golden brown with crispy bacon wrapping around the succulent chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Step 5: Glaze and Broil After baking, it’s time to add a sweet touch to your Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops. Brush a generous layer of your favorite barbecue sauce over the lollipops. Then, switch the oven to broil and return the sheet for an additional 5 minutes. This step caramelizes the sauce, enhancing the flavors and creating an irresistible finish. Watch closely to prevent burning! Step 6: Rest and Serve Remove the lollipops from the oven and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute within the chicken, ensuring each bite remains tender and flavorful. Once rested, serve your Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops hot, paired with dipping sauces of your choice for an interactive and delightful snacking experience. Storage Tips for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops Fridge: Store any leftover Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their flavor and texture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the lollipops in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep the bacon from getting soggy. Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor retention. Expert Tips for Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops Choose Fresh Chicken: Make sure to select fresh chicken drumsticks for the best flavor and texture. Fresh meat ensures juiciness once cooked. Bacon Strips Matter: Opt for thin-cut bacon to achieve that perfect crispy texture. Thick-cut bacon may not cook evenly and can become chewy instead of crispy. Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning! A good rub using smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cracked black pepper ensures deliciousness in every bite of your Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops. Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking process, especially while baking and broiling. Use a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) without drying out. Let Them Rest: After broiling, allow your lollipops to rest briefly before serving. This lets the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender and moist. Experiment with Dips: Pair your lollipops with various dipping sauces—ranch, blue cheese, or homemade barbecue sauce—to elevate the flavor experience! Make Ahead Options These Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops are perfect for meal prep and can help you save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can season and wrap the chicken drumsticks with bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. This not only maintains their delicious flavor but also allows the seasonings to penetrate the chicken better. When you’re prepared to serve, simply bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 35 minutes, then glaze with barbecue sauce and broil for that crispy finish. Your guests will enjoy the same mouthwatering taste, making your entertaining effortless! Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops Variations Let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on the classic Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops—perfect for all taste buds! Turkey Substitute: Swap chicken for turkey drumsticks for a leaner option. The flavor remains just as vibrant and delicious. Cauliflower Alternative: For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with cauliflower florets. Coat them in the same spices and wrap in bacon for a savory treat. Your non-meat eaters will rejoice! Cheesy Delight: Filling each wrapped drumstick with cheese before baking adds a gooey surprise. Consider mozzarella for meltiness or cheddar for a sharp pop of flavor. Spicy Kick: Incorporate chopped jalapeños into the seasoning mix for a spicy twist. The heat pairs perfectly with the smoky bacon and juicy chicken! Maple Glaze: Instead of barbecue sauce, brush on maple syrup during the broiling step for a sweet-salty flavor bomb. The caramelization adds extra depth. Buffalo Style: Toss the lollipops in Buffalo sauce after baking for a zesty flavor upgrade. Serve alongside blue cheese dressing for a perfect pairing. Korean BBQ Twist: Use gochujang sauce instead of traditional barbecue sauce for a spicy and sweet glaze. This will give your lollipops a unique kick that’s hard to resist! Try a Different Rub: Experiment with dry ranch or Cajun seasoning instead of paprika for a fully new flavor profile. Each offers its unique cooking magic and excitement! These variations keep things fresh and exciting in the kitchen, so don’t hesitate to mix and match. Feel free to browse my recipes for Poblano Chicken Tacos or Creamy Pesto Chicken Broccoli to discover more flavorful inspiration! What to Serve with Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops? Enhance your gathering with delicious sides that perfectly embrace the rich flavors of your lollipop creations. Creamy Ranch Dip: This cool and tangy dip complements the savory richness, providing a delightful contrast with each bite of chicken. Spicy Coleslaw: The crunch and zest of coleslaw add a refreshing balance, while its spiciness elevates the overall flavor experience. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for mopping up leftover barbecue sauce, making each bite even more satisfying. Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Colorful and smoky, they offer a hearty contrast to the lollipops, adding nutritious, vibrant flavors to your plate. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries create an amazing flavor combo with the savory, salty lollipops and are always a crowd favorite. Classic Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a bright counterpoint, while crunchy croutons add texture to every mouthful. Homemade BBQ Sauce: Elevate your lollipops with an extra drizzle of barbecue sauce, creating a sweet (and sticky!) finish that guests will love. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing beverage cleanses the palate and adds a burst of citrus that pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors of the chicken. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, treat your guests with warm cookies—the perfect dessert to round out your delicious gathering. Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops Recipe FAQs What is the best way to select chicken drumsticks for this recipe? Absolutely! When selecting chicken drumsticks, look for ones that are plump and firm with no discoloration. Ideally, they should have a slight sheen to indicate freshness. Avoid drumsticks with dark spots or an off smell, as these could indicate spoilage. Freshness significantly enhances the flavor and juiciness during cooking. How can I store leftover Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops? To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay succulent for up to 3 days. If you want to savor them longer, you can also freeze them. Just place the lollipops in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them initially, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. What are the best reheating methods for these lollipops? When it comes to reheating leftover Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops, your best bet is using the oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and place the lollipops on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re hot and the bacon regains its crispiness. I recommend avoiding the microwave, as it can make the bacon soggy, diminishing that delightful crunch. Can I freeze uncooked Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops? Yes, you can! For freezing uncooked lollipops, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and place them in the freezer, allowing them to freeze solid. Once they’re firm, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can bake them straight from the freezer—just extend the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes to ensure they’re cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Are there any dietary restrictions I should consider with this recipe? Definitely! If you’re catering to guests with dietary restrictions, consider offering alternative meats like turkey or even a vegetarian option using cauliflower as the base. For allergies, check with your guests about their sensitivities, as bacon can be problematic for those avoiding pork, and some BBQ sauces may contain gluten or other allergens. It’s always best to keep everyone in mind to ensure a fun and safe gathering! What are some troubleshooting tips if my bacon doesn’t crisp up? Very good question! If the bacon on your lollipops isn’t getting crispy, ensure you’re using thin-cut bacon, as thick-cut often results in a chewy texture. Make sure each drumstick is securely wrapped, with the bacon overlapping slightly for better cooking. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give them enough room for hot air to circulate. Lastly, if you suspect the bacon isn’t done but the chicken is cooked, you could finish crisping them under the broiler for a few extra minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops for Irresistible Snacking These Bacon Wrapped Chicken Lollipops are the perfect savory finger food for parties, combining juicy chicken and crispy bacon. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 55 minutes mins Servings: 6 lollipopsCourse: AppetizerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chicken12 pieces Chicken Drumsticks Freshness enhances flavor and ensures juicy meat.1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika For a milder taste, use regular paprika.For the Bacon12 strips Bacon Strips Thin cut crisps up nicely around the chicken.For Seasoning1 teaspoon Coarse Freshly Cracked Black Pepper Regular black pepper can be a simple substitute.1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic gives a more vibrant flavor if desired.1 teaspoon Seasoned Salt Use regular salt with herbs if you're out of seasoned salt.For the Glaze1 cup Barbecue Sauce Choose your favorite brand or make homemade. Equipment Ovenbaking sheetParchment paperMeat ThermometerMixing bowl Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPrepare the Chicken: Snap the ends off the chicken drumsticks. In a bowl, mix smoked paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and seasoned salt. Rub this mixture over each drumstick.Wrap with Bacon: Take two strips of bacon and wrap them around each drumstick, ensuring they are fully covered and overlapping.Arrange for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place each wrapped drumstick on the sheet with space between them.Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for about 35 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C).Glaze and Broil: Brush barbecue sauce over the lollipops. Switch to broil and cook for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then serve with dipping sauces. Nutrition Serving: 1lollipopCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 3gProtein: 18gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgSugar: 5gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg NotesThese lollipops are great for parties! Don't forget to experiment with different dips to enhance the flavor experience. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
