How Long Smoke Chicken Thighs? Smoked Chicken Thigh Recipe

Smoked chicken thighs are a delicious treat that give your meal a unique flavor unlike anything else. If you’re looking to add some extra smoky, hearty goodness into your next dinner or gathering then smoking some chicken might just be the way to go. Smoking meat can seem intimidating and complex but with a few simple steps and an understanding of what needs to happen during the process, it’s actually quite straightforward. In this blog post we’ll look at all the things you need to know about how long smoke chicken thighs for maximum flavor and deliciousness every time.

Overview of smoking chicken thighs

Smoking chicken thighs is a favorite meal, especially during the summer. It is a crowd-pleasing recipe that can be prepared easily with just a few simple ingredients. The result is delicious and loved by everyone at a backyard BBQ.

Ingredients needed for smoked chicken thighs

– 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, preferably air chilled

– 1 tablespoon olive oil (substitute any other vegetable oil)

– 2 tablespoons Kosher salt (optional)

– Dry Rub:

• 1 tablespoon salt
• 3 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika, preferably smoked
• 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar (substitute coconut sugar)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

BBQ tools you may need for smoked chicken thighs

For smoked chicken thighs, these are the BBQ tools you may need:

– The MEATER Plus Bluetooth Thermometer, which is great for tracking internal temperature.

– The ThermoPro Instant Read Thermometer, a must-have for any BBQer.

– The GrillBlazer GrillGun, which lights charcoal and wood in 1 minute (10% off).

Best rub for smoked chicken thighs

When it comes to selecting the best rub for smoked chicken thighs, there’s no competition. The ultimate flavor can be achieved by using a sweet rub. Experience the absolute deliciousness of seasoned chicken thighs with the perfect combination of brown sugar, an array of savory spices (including smoked paprika), and a subtle kick from cayenne pepper. While some pitmasters keep their signature rubs a secret, I’m delighted to share my recipe for the sweet rub. It’s too amazing not to be shared, allowing everyone to become a backyard BBQ hero and smoke the most incredible food of their lives. Find out more about my sweet rub and how to make your own by visiting my post here.

What type of wood should use for smoking chicken thighs?

For smoking chicken thighs, it is recommended to use wood flavors that complement the meat. Hickory and oak offer robust flavors, while applewood, peachwood, and cherrywood provide sweet and fruity undertones that are highly desirable.

Can I smoke boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can smoke boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in. Keep in mind that the cook time for boneless chicken thighs will usually be shorter. Additionally, it’s worth noting that boneless chicken thighs are typically more expensive. Personally, I opt for bone-in chicken when possible, especially since I have a family of 7.

Can I smoke frozen chicken thighs?

It is not advisable to smoke frozen chicken thighs as they may not cook uniformly and could require more time to reach the safe temperature of 165°F. It is preferable to thaw the chicken thighs in the refrigerator overnight before smoking.

Should you brine chicken thighs before smoking?

If you are considering brining chicken thighs before smoking, it can help retain moisture and enhance flavor. While not necessary, if you decide to brine, it is recommended to do so for a minimum of 2-4 hours using a mixture of water, salt, sugar, and herbs.

How to smoke chicken thighs?

To smoke chicken thighs and achieve perfect juiciness, follow these steps:

1. Fire up your smoker: Preheat your smoker to 275 degrees F.
2. Prep your chicken: Trim off any excess skin and roll the chicken tightly into uniform pieces. Drizzle olive oil on all sides.
3. Season: Apply a sweet rub to completely cover the chicken thighs.
4. Smoke: Place the chicken on the smoker, skin side up, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. This usually takes around 45 to 75 minutes, depending on the size of the thighs.
5. Baste: Baste the thighs with Whiskey Peach BBQ Sauce or your preferred BBQ sauce for added flavor.
6. Finish smoking: Continue smoking the thighs until they reach a temperature of 170-175 degrees F.
7. Remove, rest, serve, and enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the smoker. Let the thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving hot with extra BBQ sauce.

What is the best temperature to smoke chicken thighs?

The best temperature to smoke chicken thighs is 275 degrees Fahrenheit. Keep an internal meat thermometer handy and continue smoking until the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 170-175 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember to cook to temperature, rather than relying solely on cooking time. The cooking time may vary depending on the consistency of the smoker’s heat and the thickness of the chicken thighs.

How long smoke chicken thighs?

Chicken thighs typically take around 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes to fully cook on a smoker set to 275 degrees F. It is important to use an internal meat thermometer to determine the doneness of your chicken thighs. Continue smoking until the internal temperature reaches 170-175 degrees F. The cooking time may vary depending on the consistency of heat from your smoker and the thickness of the chicken thighs. It is crucial to cook based on temperature rather than time.

More reading: can you freeze chicken salad

What internal temperature should smoked chicken thighs be cooked?

The chicken should be cooked on your smoker with the skin side up. Close the lid and cook the thighs until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (ensure you’re using a reliable meat thermometer). Depending on the size of your chicken thighs, it may take anywhere from 45 to 75 minutes to reach this target temperature.

How to get crispier skin on smoked chicken thighs?

To achieve crispier skin on smoked chicken thighs, follow these steps:

1. Increase the heat of the smoker to approximately 400 degrees F.
2. Place the chicken thighs back on the grill directly over the heat.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the chicken skin becomes crisp.
4. Remove the chicken thighs from the grill.
5. Serve and enjoy your delicious, crispy smoked chicken thighs.

Please note that cooking times may vary, so it’s always a good idea to monitor the chicken closely to avoid overcooking.

Sauces for smoked chicken thighs

These sauces enhance the flavor of smoked chicken thighs and add a delicious touch to your meal

• Peri Peri Sauce
• Teriyaki Sauce
• Garlic Butter Sauce
• Buffalo Sauce
• BBQ Sauce

How to store leftover smoked chicken thighs?

For storing leftover smoked chicken thighs, follow these guidelines:

• To store, place the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap the smoked chicken thighs tightly and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.

More smoked chicken thighs recipes

Looking for more ways to enjoy smoked chicken thighs? Here are a few recipe ideas to try out:

• Smoked Chicken Thigh Tacos.
• Smoked Chicken Alfredo Pasta.
• Smoked Chicken Thigh Pizza.
• Smoked Chicken Thigh Salad.

FAQs: smoke Chicken thighs

How long do you smoke chicken thighs at 225?

Chicken thighs are usually smoked at a temperature of 225°F to 250°F for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs at 250 degrees?

Preheat the smoker to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the chicken rest while the smoker preheats. Place the chicken on the smoker with the skin side up. Smoke the chicken thighs at 225 degrees for approximately 1 ½ – 2 hours. After 45 minutes, brush the chicken with the mop. Remember to mop the chicken every 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches about 165 degrees.

How long to smoke chicken thighs at 300?

The cooking time for smoking chicken thighs at a temperature of 300 degrees Fahrenheit generally ranges from 35 to 45 minutes.

How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs at 180 degrees?

Slow-smoking chicken thighs is a delicate art, and the perfect temperature to achieve succulent perfection? 180°F. Depending on the wood used in your smoker and thickness of your bird, it could take up to 6 hours – but patience pays off when you’re tantalizing taste buds with each juicy bite.

Can you smoke chicken thighs at 250?

Chicken thighs can generally be smoked at temperatures ranging from 225°F to 250°F, with an average smoking time of approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.