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Smoked Chicken Thighs

Recipe By:
Lauren
Updated:

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Smoked Chicken Thighs are a favorite for many barbecue fans, and for good reason! They’re packed with flavor and stay juicy even after cooking, thanks to their higher fat content compared to chicken breasts. Imagine biting into a piece of chicken with crispy skin, a hint of smoke, and sweet BBQ sauce drizzling down. It’s a moment that brings together family and friends around the grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just looking for a tasty weeknight dinner, this recipe is perfect.

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In the process, you’ll learn about marinating, seasoning, and the techniques to achieve that perfect smoke. This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delightful enough to impress seasoned grillers. So grab your apron and let’s get started on these delicious smoked chicken thighs.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe for Smoked Chicken Thighs is designed to bring out the best in this succulent cut of meat. The combination of a homemade rub and a final brush of BBQ sauce creates a flavor profile that’s both deep and satisfying. The use of brown sugar in the rub enhances caramelization, which creates that perfect crispy skin.

Moreover, the smoking process helps to infuse the chicken with a wonderful flavor that can compete with any grilled dish. The balance of sweet and savory, combined with a hint of smokiness, makes it unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Chicken Thighs

Perfectly smoked, juicy chicken thighs will bring joy to your gathering. The crispy skin and the sweet, smoky sauce make it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re a novice cook or a BBQ aficionado, you’ll find this recipe manageable and rewarding.

Your friends will ask for seconds and maybe even thirds! The beauty of this dish is that it pairs seamlessly with many sides. You’ll love serving it at your next backyard barbecue, and with every bite, you’ll feel pride in mastering this simple yet delicious recipe.

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Ingredients

  • 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
  • 1½ cups BBQ sauce, divided

Preparing the Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Preheat the Smoker for Perfect Cooking

Begin by preheating your smoker to 275°F (135°C). If you’re equipped with a water pan, fill it halfway. This creates steam and keeps the chicken moist during cooking, which combats dryness effectively. A stable temperature ensures that your chicken thighs cook evenly without drying out.

Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Trim any excess fat or loose skin on the chicken thighs. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps nicely during cooking. Dry skin will sear well and become wonderfully crispy.

Create the Flavorful Rub

In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper until well combined. This rub adds layers of flavor, and the sweetness from the sugar gives that beautiful caramelization when smoked.

Season the Chicken

Drizzle the chicken thighs with neutral oil and generously coat them with the seasoning mixture. Lightly press the rub into the thighs. This helps the flavors penetrate the chicken and ensures a tasty crust develops during smoking.

Smoke the Chicken Thighs

Place the thighs skin-side up on the smoker grates. Close the lid and smoke for approximately 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The key is to resist the urge to peek too often; you want to keep that smoke in!

Add the BBQ Sauce

Pour ½ cup of BBQ sauce into a separate bowl. Brush a light coating over each smoked thigh, then close the lid. Continue smoking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 175°F to 185°F (79°C to 85°C) and the sauce is set. This final touch builds an amazing glaze on the chicken that adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Rest and Serve

Remove the smoked chicken thighs from the smoker. Allow them to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicy and tender chicken. Serve with the remaining 1 cup of BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing the flavor in each bite.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your smoked chicken thighs with classic sides like:
– Coleslaw
– Potato salad
– Cornbread

These sides not only complete the meal but also provide textural contrast to the richness of the chicken. A fresh garden salad can also add a nice touch!

Tips for Success

  • Make sure your smoker is adequately preheated to maintain consistent cooking temperatures. This keeps the chicken from drying out and helps with even cooking.
  • Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness for juicy, safe-to-eat chicken.
  • Experiment with different wood chips like hickory or cherry, which can enhance the smoky flavor. Each type adds its own unique notes.

Variations

For extra zest, try adding cayenne pepper or lemon zest to the rub. If you’re in the mood for something different, swapping out traditional BBQ sauce for a spicy mustard glaze can bring an exciting twist to the dish.

Pairing Ideas

These smoked chicken thighs pair perfectly with a chilled beer or a light, fruity wine. Consider serving them alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad to keep the meal vibrant and balanced.

Smoked Chicken Thighs

FAQs

1. How long should I smoke chicken thighs?
Smoke chicken thighs for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

2. Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work, but the smoking time may be shorter since they cook faster.

3. What type of wood chips are best for smoking chicken?
Fruit woods like apple or cherry provide a sweet flavor that complements the chicken well, while hickory offers a stronger taste that many enjoy.

4. Can I make the rub ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rub and store it in an airtight container for several weeks, making your cooking process faster on the day of your barbecue.

5. How should I store leftover smoked chicken thighs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

A delightful experience awaits you with these Smoked Chicken Thighs. The combination of flavors and textures makes each bite irresistible. Whether it’s a family meal or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Take your time adjusting the seasoning or sauce to suit your tastes, and relish every moment in the kitchen!

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Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked Chicken Thighs

These Smoked Chicken Thighs are a crowd-favorite with juicy meat and crispy skin. Perfect for BBQ gatherings or a delicious weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like avocado or canola)
  • 1½ cups BBQ sauce, divided

Instructions

  • Preheat the smoker to 275°F (135°C).
  • Trim excess fat from chicken thighs and pat them dry.
  • Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper to create the rub.
  • Coat chicken thighs with neutral oil and season with the rub.
  • Place thighs skin-side up on the smoker grates and smoke for 1 to 1.25 hours until reaching 165°F (74°C).
  • Brush BBQ sauce on the thighs and smoke for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 175°F to 185°F (79°C to 85°C).
  • Let chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving with remaining BBQ sauce.

Notes

Ensure the smoker is properly preheated for even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Experiment with different wood chips for added flavor.

  • Author: Jesseca
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Smoking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 560
  • Fat: 20
  • Saturated Fat: 5
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 8
  • Fiber: 0
  • Protein: 28
  • Cholesterol: 120

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