Smoked Chicken Thighs – Simple on Traeger Pellet Smoker
Smoked chicken thighs are a delicious, inexpensive meal that are extremely easy to prepare on a pellet grill (like a Traeger, or any brand).
I love to smoke a large batch and keep them in the fridge since leftovers are so versatile.
In this blog post, we’ll show you a simple, virtually error-proof method to pull off this mouth-watering dish.
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Why is this the best smoked chicken thighs recipe?
Let’s be honest, we love easy recipes that impress. This recipe only requires a few ingredients and very little effort since it’s cooked on a pellet grill (Traeger or other).
All you need is bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs, olive oil, and BBQ rub.
Smoking on a pellet grill is about as easy as it gets; just set the temp and get ready to rock out.
But for the record, the process outlined works for ANY SMOKER as long as you can maintain the target temperatures and measure internal meat temps as described.
What are chicken thighs?
A chicken thigh comes from the upper part of the leg of a chicken, located between the drumstick and the chicken’s torso.
Renowned for their rich, succulent flavor and tenderness, chicken thighs are a favorite cut for many dishes due to their higher fat content compared to other cuts like the breast.
This makes them especially suitable for grilling and smoking, where the fat can render and add to the overall flavor of the dish.
Why smoke chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs are a very versatile cut that can be cooked in a lot of different ways. From baking, to pan frying, to grilling, these babies are hard to mess up.
However, smoking chicken thighs adds a depth of flavor you just can’t get from other cooking methods. The chicken thighs soak up the smoke flavor particularly well; making them well suited to become smoky deliciousness!
Ingredients Needed for Smoked Chicken Thighs
Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
Olive oil
Your favorite BBQ rub
How to make this smoked chicken thighs recipe
- Set Up Your Pellet Grill (Traeger, etc): Preheat your pellet smoker to 225°F. Make sure the hopper is filled with your choice of wood pellets.
- Preparation: Rinse the chicken thighs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Lightly coat each chicken thigh with olive oil. This will help the BBQ rub stick to the chicken.
- Seasoning: Generously apply your favorite BBQ rub on all sides of the chicken thighs, making sure to get the rub under the skin as well for maximum flavor.
- Smoke the chicken thighs: Once the grill is preheated, place the seasoned chicken thighs directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and let them smoke for approximately 1.5 – 2 hours. I recommend to check internal temperature for the first time around the 1.5 hour mark. Be sure to check internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
- Brush with BBQ sauce (optional step): Brush with BBQ sauce when the chicken thighs reach an internal temp of about 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Remove from smoker when done: Chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature 165°F (74°C) and can be removed from smoker. I cook mine to 170° typically just because I’ve become accustomed to it.
- Resting: Remove chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite.
Serve: Now enjoy your simple, perfectly smoked chicken thighs!
Prep the chicken thighs for smoking
Trim the meat
With a sharp knife and/or kitchen scissors, trim any excess fat or excess skin. I typically don’t shoot for competition worthy chicken thighs when I’m just smoking these for every day eating.
Season Generously
Drizzle a little olive oil on each chicken thigh and rub onto all surfaces. Then apply dry rub to your heart’s desire. I say season generously, using as much rub as you can stand. In my opinion, folks tend to under-season more than over-season.
Place in pellet grill
Sometimes little things can make a big difference. When it comes to smoking, spacing between pieces matters.
Organize chicken thighs in the grill/smoker so that pieces don’t touch. Smoke will not penetrate any area where pieces are touching. I recommend at least 1 inch of spacing if at all possible. For this cook, I was able to space generously as shown below.
How Long to Smoke Chicken Thighs at 225
For the most part, chicken thighs will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to smoke.
However, chicken should always be cooked to a safe temperature as measured by a meat thermometer. For this smoked chicken thigh recipe, the thighs are done when an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
I personally use, and highly recommend, the Thermapen One by Thermoworks. I’ve been through multiple cheaper thermometers and had bad experiences. The Thermapen is 100% worth the money.
How to get crispy skin on smoked chicken thighs?
After smoking the chicken thighs to an internal temperature of about 155°F, remove from the smoker and increase the temperature of your grill to 400°F (204°C).
Place the thighs back on for an additional 5-10 minutes; cooking to 165°F internal temperature as described above.
This process, often referred to as reverse searing, can help to render the fat under the skin, making it crispy and delicious.
What Are The Best Pellets For Smoked Chicken Thighs?
The recommendations below are based on research and provided as a starting place; but I say go with whatever you prefer. I’m going to be honest with you…after trying multiple specific woods, I honestly can’t taste much difference in the various wood types.
Hickory: Delivers a robust, smoky flavor that pairs well with chicken, enhancing its natural taste.
Oak: Provides a medium-smoky flavor, which is more subtle than hickory, but strong enough to complement the chicken.
Apple: Imparts a mildly sweet and fruity flavor, adding a unique touch to the smoked chicken thighs.
Cherry: Known for its slightly sweet and fruity taste, cherry pellets can give a unique flavor twist to any poultry dish.
Maple: With its subtle, sweet, and smoky flavor, maple is great for a more delicate taste.
Mesquite: Offers an intense, earthy flavor. Best for those who prefer a strong, smoky taste.
Tips for Smoked Chicken Thighs on a Traeger Pellet Grill
- Always use a reliable meat thermometer to check internal temperature of the chicken. This ensures that it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Always maintain a consistent temperature to ensure even cooking. This should be VERY easy using a pellet grill.
- Before placing the chicken on the grill, make sure the grill grates are clean. This prevents any old flavors from contaminating your smoked chicken.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of wood pellets until you find your personal favorite. Each type of wood imparts a different flavor, adding a unique touch to the dish.
Side Dishes to Serve with Smoked Chicken Thighs
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of grilled vegetables can provide a fresh, smoky complement to the chicken. This could include bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or corn on the cob.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled with a bit of butter, salt, and pepper, this side dish adds both color and a nice crunch to the meal.
Mac and Cheese: This creamy, cheesy dish pairs well with almost any BBQ.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool and tangy crunch of coleslaw makes it an excellent counterpart to the smoky richness of the chicken.
Baked Beans: Hearty and rich, baked beans can add a sweet and savory touch to your meal.
Cornbread: Moist, sweet cornbread is a classic side for any BBQ dish.
Potato Salad: A creamy, cool potato salad can balance out the smoky, hearty flavor of the chicken.
Green Salad: A light and healthy green salad can help cut through the richness of smoked chicken thighs, providing a refreshing contrast.
Check out these other Pellet Grill Recipes
Don’t have a smoker? — Check out these guides for choosing the Top Smokers for Beginners or Smoker Grill Combos
Conclusion for Smoked Chicken Thighs
Smoking chicken thighs on a Traeger Pellet Grill is a simple process that yields incredibly flavorful results.
By following these easy steps, you’ll be able to serve a meal that will impress your guests and satisfy your BBQ cravings.
So what are you waiting for? Fire up your pellet grill and throw down on some smoked chicken thighs today!
Pellet Smoked Chicken Thighs – FAQ
How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs?
When smoked at 225 degrees Fahrenheit, the cook time is about 1.5 to 2 hours as described above. However, always cook chicken thighs to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
If smoking at a higher temperature than 225°F, cook times will be shorter. Use a meat thermometer and check internal temp frequently to ensure you don’t overcook.
What is the best wood for smoking chicken thighs?
Different types of hardwood pellets can influence the flavor of the smoked chicken. I personally use a competition blend of pellets which is heavy on the hickory. However, after trying multiple specific woods, I honestly can’t taste much difference in the various wood types.
How do I ensure a consistent temperature on my Pellet Grill?
Most pellet grills (Traeger plus other brands) come with an in-built control system that maintains the temperature. However, it’s important to check the temperature regularly, especially during long cooking sessions.
How long should I rest the chicken thighs after they are smoked?
Rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite.
What are the health benefits of eating smoked chicken thighs?
Chicken thighs are an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are particularly rich in niacin and vitamin B6, both of which are essential for energy production and brain health.
Do I need to flip chicken thighs when smoking?
No, I don’t recommend flipping the chicken thighs as I find it unnecessary.
Can I smoke other pieces of chicken on a Traeger Pellet Grill?
Yes, you can smoke various parts of chicken, such as breast, wings, and drumsticks, on a Traeger Pellet Grill. The process and cooking times may vary.
How long to smoke chicken thighs at 250 degrees?
When smoked at 250 degrees Fahrenheit, the cook time is about 1.25 to 1.75 hours as described above. However, always cook chicken thighs to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs at 375 degrees?
At 375 degrees, chicken thighs aren’t really being smoked in the traditional sense. At this temp, the thighs will be done before picking up much smoke flavor. I’d expect a cook time of about 30 to 45 minutes; but still recommend cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs at 400 degrees?
At 400 degrees, chicken thighs aren’t really being smoked in the traditional sense. At this temp, the thighs will be done before picking up much smoke flavor. I’d expect a cook time of about 30 minutes; but still recommend cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part.
