Smoked chicken thighs

The Best Way of Cooking Smoked Chicken Thighs

If you love smoked chicken thighs but can never seem to get them right, this article is for you. Smoking chicken thighs is an art, and there is a secret to getting them perfect every time. With these tips, you’ll be a smoked chicken thigh master.

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked chicken thighs are a type of poultry cooked using the smoking method. This cooking method involves exposing the meat to smoke from burning wood, which imparts a distinct flavor to the chicken.

Smoked chicken thighs are often made with boneless chicken, cutting down on cook time and making them easier to eat.

Why smoked chicken thighs are the best?

Smoked chicken thighs with rosemary

Smoked chicken thighs are the best because they are full of flavor and juiciness. They can be cooked to perfection in just a few hours, and their smoky taste is unforgettable.

When smoking chicken thighs, it’s essential to cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. It ensures that the chicken is cooked through and juicy.

Chicken thighs can be smoked at a lower temperature for a more extended period or at a higher temperature for a shorter period. You will indeed have delicious, smoky chicken thighs that everyone will love. 

The perfect smoked chicken thigh

When it comes to smoked chicken, the perfect recipe is vital. Whether you’re smoking chicken legs or thighs, this guide will help you get succulent, tender meat every time.

Here’s what you need to know to smoke the perfect chicken thigh:

  1. Choose your wood wisely. Depending on the flavor you’re going for, different woods impart different tastes. For a classic smoked chicken flavor, use hickory or mesquite.
  2. Season the chicken well. A dry rub of salt, pepper, and other spices will give the skin a flavorful crust.
  3. Cook low and slow. Chicken thighs should be cooked at a low temperature (around 225 degrees Fahrenheit) for indirect heat. It ensures that the meat stays juicy and doesn’t dry out. 

Best Seasoning for smoked chicken thighs

chicken thighs ingredients

The best one for smoked chicken thighs is a simple blend of salt, pepper, and paprika. This rub will give the chicken a nice flavor and help to lock in moisture. Chicken thighs are also very forgiving, so if you make a mistake with the rub, it’s not the end of the world.

To apply the rub, mix the spices in a bowl and then Rub them into the meat. Make sure that you cover all sides of each thigh.

Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Delicious, smoky, and full of flavor, these smoked chicken thighs are a force to be reckoned with. And, they’re easy to make! Whether you’re using a charcoal grill, electric smoker, or even your oven, these chicken thighs will come out perfectly cooked every time.
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Smoked Thighs Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 1091kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp cumin
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 small onion diced

Instructions

  • Mix smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.
  • Rub spice mixture all over the chicken thighs.
  • Whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, and onion in another bowl or container.
  • Pour mixture over chicken and toss to coat.
  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, up to 12 hours.
  • Preheat, the smoker to 375 degrees F.
  • Grill chicken for about 4 minutes per side or until cooked through.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Amount per Serving
Calories
1091
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
73
g
112
%
Saturated Fat
 
20
g
125
%
Trans Fat
 
1
g
Cholesterol
 
347
mg
116
%
Sodium
 
1641
mg
71
%
Potassium
 
1425
mg
41
%
Carbohydrates
 
13
g
4
%
Fiber
 
6
g
25
%
Sugar
 
3
g
3
%
Protein
 
89
g
178
%
Vitamin A
 
6553
IU
131
%
Vitamin C
 
11
mg
13
%
Calcium
 
161
mg
16
%
Iron
 
11
mg
61
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

How to smoke chicken thighs?

Step 1

For juicy, flavorful smoked chicken thighs, follow this simple recipe. Boneless chicken thighs are rubbed with a spice blend, then smoked until cooked through.

Step 2

The key to perfect smoked chicken thighs is in the rub. A blend of paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper gives the chicken flavor and helps to create a crispy skin.

Step 3

Smoke the chicken for about 2 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into it. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce or dipping sauce.

Tips for the perfect smoked chicken thigh

  1. Follow these tips for the juiciest, most flavorful smoked chicken thighs.
  2. Start with quality chicken legs and thighs – they should be plump and evenly sized for even cooking.
  3. Season the chicken generously with your favorite dry rub or spice blend, massaging it into the skin for maximum flavor.
  4. Preheat your smoker to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and add your wood chips of choice – we recommend hickory or mesquite for a classic smoke flavor.
  5. Place the chicken in the smoker and cook for about 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
  6. Baste the chicken occasionally with apple juice or fruit juice for added sweetness and moisture.

How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs at 225?

It takes about 2 hours to smoke chicken thighs at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the cooking time will vary depending on the size of the chicken thighs. For smaller chicken thighs, it may only take 1-1.5 hours. For larger chicken thighs, it may take up to 3 hours.

When smoking chicken thighs, it is essential to monitor the internal temperature of the meat to ensure that it is cooked through. The ideal internal temperature for smoked chicken thighs is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thigh before serving. 

How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs?

Smoked chicken thigh on a fork

The process of smoking chicken legs and thighs can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the temperature you cook at. The key to smoking chicken legs and thighs is to simmer them at a low temperature, so they don’t dry out.

When smoking chicken legs and thighs, always use a thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Are chicken thighs good to smoke?

Smoked chicken thighs are easy to prepare and can be cooked perfectly in just a few hours. Smoked chicken thighs are an excellent option for your next cookout.

They’re easy to prepare and can be cooked perfectly in just a few hours. Here’s everything you need to know about smoked chicken thighs, including a delicious recipe.

Smoked chicken thighs are a great option if you’re looking for a tasty way to feed your friends and family at your next cookout. Chicken thighs are inexpensive and easy to find at most supermarkets and take well to smoking.

They can be cooked in just a few hours, so you won’t have to spend all day tending the grill. 

At what temp are smoked chicken thighs done?

When smoking chicken thighs, the general rule is that they are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. However, boneless chicken thighs will cook slightly faster than bone-in chicken thighs.

So, if you’re smoking boneless chicken thighs, you should aim for an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Either way, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs to ensure that they are cooked before serving.

More Smoked Chicken Recipes

We have the best-rated smoked chicken recipes for you if you want to enjoy more recipes on recipe n tips.

Here is a list of our top-rated ones you can enjoy in every situation with your loved ones.

Below is a brief comparison of the grills mentioned in this article.

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