Are you tired of the same old boring chicken dishes? Look no further! Smoked chicken thighs are a game-changer, and when paired with bold flavors, they become a culinary masterpiece. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering smoked chicken thighs recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride. From sweet and tangy to spicy and savory, these recipes offer something for everyone.
We’ll start with some classic combinations like Honey Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs and Cajun Spiced Smoked Chicken Thighs, which bring together the comfort of honey and garlic with the bold kick of cayenne pepper. Next, we’ll venture into the world of fruity and spicy flavors with Maple Bourbon Smoked Chicken Thighs and Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs.
Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to inspire your next cookout. So grab your smoker, get ready to fire up the grill, and let’s dive into the world of juicy and delicious smoked chicken thighs!
Honey Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your barbecue game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of honey, the pungency of garlic, and the depth of smoke. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, skin side up (if it has skin).
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours
Cajun Spiced Smoked Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this mouthwatering recipe for Cajun Spiced Smoked Chicken Thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, bone side down. Close the lid and smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the chicken with a mixture of brown sugar, kosher salt, apple cider vinegar, and water.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Maple Bourbon Smoked Chicken Thighs
Transform your chicken thighs with a rich and tangy glaze, combining the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of maple syrup. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp bourbon whiskey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in the smoker, skin side up.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over the chicken thighs every 30 minutes for 2 hours.
5. After 2 hours, increase smoker temperature to 275°F (135°C) and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours
Lemon Pepper Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this tangy and aromatic recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the deep flavor of smoked paprika. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these smoky chicken thighs are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large container and pour the lemon-pepper mixture over them. Massage the marinade into the meat until it’s well coated.
4. Smoke or grill the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from heat and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and smoky recipe that combines the spicy kick of chipotles with the rich flavor of smoked chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, these thighs are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush the chipotle mixture evenly onto both sides of the meat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Smoke chicken for 4-6 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Brown Sugar Glazed Smoked Chicken Thighs
Take your chicken game to the next level with these tender and flavorful Brown Sugar Glazed Smoked Chicken Thighs. Perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion, this recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the sweetness of brown sugar and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, skin side up.
5. Brush the glaze all over the chicken every 30 minutes, or until cooked through (about 2-1/2 hours).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Alabama White Sauce
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken thighs with a creamy Alabama white sauce, perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/2 cup Alabama white sauce (see below)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Alabama White Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 275°F.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Place chicken in the smoker, close lid, and smoke for 4 hours or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare Alabama white sauce by whisking together mayonnaise, buttermilk, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Remove smoked chicken from smoker and brush with Alabama white sauce.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes (brushing with white sauce)
Garlic Herb Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the deep flavor of smoked chicken thighs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush the garlic-herb mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, closing the lid to maintain heat and smoke.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Peach BBQ Sauce
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of peach BBQ sauce paired with tender, smoky chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup peach BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Season the chicken thighs with the spice mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. While the chicken is smoking, heat the peach BBQ sauce over low heat until warm and bubbly.
6. After the chicken has smoked, brush with warmed peach BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, then serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 hours (including smoking time)
Teriyaki Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory Teriyaki smoked chicken thighs recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup Teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with a temperature control).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap.
4. Smoke chicken for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Brush with additional Teriyaki sauce during last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including marinating time)
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Mango Habanero Glaze
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken thighs with a tangy mango habanero glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type for smoking)
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons habanero peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine mango puree, honey, habanero peppers, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Blend until smooth.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the chicken thighs with the mango habanero glaze.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10-15 minutes (resting)
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Coffee Rub
Elevate your chicken game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken with the boldness of a coffee rub. Perfect for a weekend cookout or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup freshly ground coffee beans
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coffee grounds, chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then coat evenly with the coffee rub.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Serves: 4
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Salsa
Savor the rich flavors of tender smoked chicken paired with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
For the Smoked Chicken:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs.
4. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Refrigerate salsa for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Serve smoked chicken with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking), 30 minutes (salsa prep)
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Mustard Molasses Glaze
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken thighs with a sticky mustard molasses glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or hickory)
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, mustard, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the glaze all over the chicken thighs.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken thighs with a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for grilled meats or as a dip. The smoky notes from the chicken pair beautifully with the bright, citrusy flavors of the Argentinean-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/2 cup chimichurri sauce (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, prepare chimichurri sauce by combining all ingredients in a bowl; stir well.
5. Serve smoked chicken thighs with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Sriracha Lime Glaze
Elevate your chicken game with this smoky and tangy recipe, featuring a zesty Sriracha lime glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred smoking wood)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp Sriracha sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, Sriracha sauce, lime juice, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each thigh for even cooking.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. During the last 15 minutes of smoking, brush the Sriracha lime glaze all over the chicken.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (with 15 minutes of glazing)
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Blueberry BBQ Sauce
Elevate your barbecue game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic smoked chicken thighs. The blueberry BBQ sauce adds a fruity depth to the tender, smoky meat.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons blueberry jam
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, blueberry jam, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Place them in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours or until cooked through.
4. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the chicken with the blueberry BBQ sauce mixture.
5. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the aromatic herbs rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a weekend BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
3. Place chicken thighs in the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Place chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each piece.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 18 mouthwatering smoked chicken thighs recipes! From sweet and savory to spicy and tangy, each dish boasts bold flavors that will leave you craving more. Try Honey Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs for a classic combo or go bold with Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs. For a taste of the South, try Alabama White Sauce or Peach BBQ Sauce. And if you’re feeling adventurous, don’t miss out on Mango Habanero Glaze, Coffee Rub, or Blueberry BBQ Sauce. Whatever your taste, there’s a recipe here to satisfy your cravings!
