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Juicy smoked chicken thighs with a golden-brown exterior, seasoned and slow-cooked over applewood smoke for maximum flavor

Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked Recipes
Savor perfectly smoked chicken thighs juicy, tender, and packed with flavor! Discover an easy recipe for BBQ success and elevate your meals today.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American BBQ
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs : Bone-in cuts retain more moisture during the smoking process, ensuring tender results

Dry Rub Mixture :

  • 2 tablespoons paprika for that classic smoky kick
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar adds sweetness without overpowering
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Optional: cayenne pepper for a bit of heat

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Your Smoker

  • Set up your smoker according to the manufacturer's instructions and preheat it to 275°F (135°C) . Use hardwood chips like hickory, applewood, or cherry for a rich, aromatic smoke flavor
  • Once the smoker is heated, adjust the vents to maintain consistent temperature.

Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub

  • In a small bowl, mix together your dry rub ingredients until well combined. For an ideal blend, consider using smoked paprika , brown sugar , garlic powder , onion powder , and kosher salt this combination delivers both sweetness and savory depth
  • Generously coat each chicken thigh with olive oil, then sprinkle the rub evenly over all sides, pressing gently so it adheres

Step 3: Smoke the Chicken Thighs

  • Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the smoker grate, ensuring they have enough space between them for even cooking. Close the lid and let the magic happen! Depending on the size of your thighs and your smoker setup, smoking should take approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes at 275°F
  • Keep an eye on the internal temperature; aim for 175–180°F in the thickest part of the meat for optimal tenderness and juiciness

Step 4: Rest Before Serving

  • Once the chicken reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and transfer it to a platter. Let the thighs rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, locking in moisture and enhancing flavor

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Protein: 35g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Keyword BBQ, Slow-Cooked, Juicy Chicken, Smoked Chicken Thighs