When it comes to cooking, few things are as versatile or flavorful as smoked chicken breast. With its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture, smoked chicken breast can be used in a wide range of dishes, from appetizers to main courses. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these 18 savory smoked chicken breast recipes are sure to become new favorites.
From classic flavors like honey mustard and cajun spice to more adventurous options like jalapeno popper and teriyaki, there’s something for everyone on this list. And with the added bonus of being able to customize your seasoning and glazes to suit your taste, you’ll never get bored with smoked chicken breast. So grab your smoker and get ready to take your meals to the next level!
Honey Mustard Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard, all wrapped up in a smoky package.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over both sides of each breast.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Cajun Spiced Smoked Chicken Breast
Add a bold Louisiana twist to your smoked chicken with this flavorful recipe. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a weeknight dinner, these tender and aromatic chicken breasts are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (such as hickory or applewood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, closing the lid to maintain heat and smoke.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Garlic Herb Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the tender, smoky goodness of slow-cooked chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker and cook for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Brush with chicken broth during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Maple Glazed Smoked Chicken Breast
Maple Glazed Smoked Chicken Breast Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe, perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion. The combination of maple syrup, brown sugar, and smoky flavors will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken breasts in the smoker, close lid, and cook for 4 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Brush glaze over chicken during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
BBQ Smoked Chicken Breast with Bacon Wrap
Elevate your chicken game with this mouthwatering BBQ smoked chicken breast wrapped in crispy bacon and tender herbs. Perfect for a summer gathering or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup BBQ rub
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 8 slices of bacon
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken breasts with the dry rub mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place chicken in the smoker for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon slices in a pan over medium heat until crispy.
6. Wrap each chicken breast with 2-3 pieces of cooked bacon and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes (wrapping)
Lemon Pepper Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this tangy and savory recipe that combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of pepper, all smothered in a rich smoke. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, lemon juice, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Season with salt to taste before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Jamaican Jerk Smoked Chicken Breast
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this succulent smoked chicken breast recipe, infused with the classic jerk seasoning blend.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup jerk seasoning (allspice, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, scotch bonnet peppers)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the jerk mixture over the chicken, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the marinade for added flavor.
5. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Breast with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your chicken game with this aromatic and savory smoked chicken breast recipe, infused with the earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or a relaxing Sunday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, closing the lid to allow the smoke to infuse the meat.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your chicken game with this spicy and smoky recipe that combines the bold flavors of chipotle peppers and smoked paprika. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with indirect heat).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker or grill and cook for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Brush the chicken with olive oil during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Teriyaki Smoked Chicken Breast Skewers
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with these mouth-watering Teriyaki Smoked Chicken Breast Skewers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, this recipe combines the richness of smoked chicken with the sticky sweetness of teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or smoker to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade; coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill or smoke skewers for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-24 minutes
Smoked Chicken Breast with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy smoked delight, featuring a bourbon-infused glaze that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or a weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of flavor)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
3. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with pepper.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, leaving space between each breast.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes, brush the bourbon glaze all over the chicken breasts.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Pesto Marinated Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this flavorful pesto marinated smoked chicken breast recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, closing the lid.
7. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Breast with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the tropical twist of pineapple salsa. Perfect for a summer BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 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
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
3. Place the chicken on the smoker/grill and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Meanwhile, combine pineapple, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl to make the salsa.
5. Serve the smoked chicken with the Pineapple Salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Buffalo Style Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your game day snacks with this mouth-watering Buffalo Style Smoked Chicken Breast recipe. This dish combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken with the spicy kick of buffalo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add buffalo wing sauce and stir until combined.
5. Brush the buffalo sauce mixture onto the smoked chicken breasts during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (plus additional time for prep and resting)
Smoked Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach and Cheese
Smoked Chicken Breast Stuffed with Spinach and Cheese: A delicious twist on classic chicken breast, this recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken with the creamy goodness of spinach and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use liquid smoke for a similar effect).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheese, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-cheese mixture.
5. Place stuffed chicken breasts in the smoker (or oven at 350°F for 25 minutes) until cooked through.
6. If using wood chips, add them to the smoker during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours (depending on the smoker or oven).
Smoked Chicken Breast with Honey Sriracha Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and spicy recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken breast with a tangy honey sriracha sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, closing the lid.
4. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Meanwhile, mix together honey and sriracha sauce in a small bowl.
6. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and then brush with the honey sriracha mixture during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Breast Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe featuring tender smoked chicken breast, crunchy slaw, and a tangy avocado crema. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 tacos shells
– Slaw ingredients:
+ 1 cup shredded cabbage
+ 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
+ 2 tablespoons lime juice
+ 1 tablespoon honey
– Avocado crema ingredients:
+ 3 ripe avocados, mashed
+ 1/2 cup sour cream
+ 1 tablespoon lime juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Season chicken breasts with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, prepare slaw by combining cabbage, cilantro, lime juice, and honey in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
5. For avocado crema, mix together mashed avocados, sour cream, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
6. Assemble tacos with smoked chicken breast, slaw, and avocado crema.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours for smoking chicken (not included in overall prep time)
Smoked Chicken Breast Salad with Cranberries and Pecans
This sweet and savory salad combines the tender flavor of smoked chicken breast with the crunch of pecans, tanginess of cranberries, and freshness of greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced chicken, cranberries, and pecans.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and apple cider vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using).
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required – just assemble the salad!
Summary
Get ready to elevate your meal game with these 18 savory smoked chicken breast recipes! From classic flavors like honey mustard and BBQ, to international inspirations like Jamaican jerk and teriyaki, there’s something for everyone. Spice up your meals with smoky goodness, or add a sweet twist with maple glaze or bourbon sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, salads, or wraps, these recipes have got you covered. So fire up your smoker and get cooking!
