Welcome to the world of smoked chicken thighs, where the savory aroma of wood smoke mingles with an endless array of flavors. If you’re a fan of tender, juicy chicken infused with rich, smoky goodness, you’re in for a treat.
This blog post presents over 30 smoked chicken thigh recipes that will not only satisfy your cravings but also elevate your culinary skills to new heights.
Chicken thighs are a versatile and economical choice for smoking, as their higher fat content keeps them juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Whether you prefer sweet and tangy marinades, spicy rubs, or aromatic herb blends, there’s something here for everyone.
From classic BBQ flavors to international inspirations, these recipes will guide you through creating mouthwatering smoked chicken thighs that will impress your family and friends. So fire up your smoker, grab your favorite wood chips, and let’s dive into a delicious adventure!
30+ Delicious Smoked Chicken Thigh Recipes You Can’t Resist
In conclusion, smoking chicken thighs is a fantastic way to explore a myriad of flavors and techniques, transforming a simple ingredient into a show-stopping dish.
With over 30 recipes at your fingertips, you can experiment with different marinades, spices, and wood types, allowing you to create unique culinary experiences every time you cook.
Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a cozy family dinner, or just craving a delicious meal, these smoked chicken thigh recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
So, gather your friends and family, share these delectable dishes, and enjoy the savory rewards of your smoking adventures.
Happy smoking!
Smoky Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs
This recipe features chicken thighs marinated in a delicious blend of honey, garlic, and soy sauce, which infuses them with a sweet and savory flavor profile.
Smoking the chicken adds a deep, aromatic essence, while the honey glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving a sticky finish that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use hickory or applewood chips for a complementary flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up. Smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze and Finish: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken thighs with any remaining marinade for added flavor and stickiness.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the thighs from the smoker. Let them rest for 5-10 minutes, then garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Smoky honey garlic chicken thighs offer a delightful balance of sweetness and smokiness, making them a standout dish for any occasion. The marinade not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist and tender.
Serve them with a side of coleslaw or grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Your guests will be asking for your secrets!
Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs
For those who enjoy a kick, these spicy chipotle smoked chicken thighs are the perfect choice. The marinade features chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, imparting a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken thighs.
The slow smoking process further enhances the spiciness, creating a mouthwatering dish that will satisfy any spice lover.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, lime juice, brown sugar, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well-coated and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat the smoker to 250°F (121°C) using mesquite or cherry wood for a bold flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once smoked, remove the thighs from the smoker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
These spicy chipotle smoked chicken thighs are a flavor explosion, perfect for anyone who craves a little heat. The combination of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors makes them irresistible.
Pair them with cooling sides like avocado salsa or a creamy dip to balance the heat.
Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a casual dinner, this dish will leave a lasting impression.
Lemon Herb Smoked Chicken Thighs
If you’re looking for a lighter, refreshing take on smoked chicken, these lemon herb smoked chicken thighs are an excellent choice.
The marinade features fresh herbs and zesty lemon juice, creating a bright flavor that complements the smoky richness of the thighs.
Perfect for spring and summer gatherings, this dish brings a burst of freshness to your plate.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using lemon wood or a mild wood like cherry for a subtle sweetness.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing the excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Lemon herb smoked chicken thighs are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of summer, showcasing the bright notes of citrus and fresh herbs. This dish pairs wonderfully with seasonal salads, grilled vegetables, or even a light pasta dish.
It’s a versatile recipe that not only pleases the palate but also makes for an elegant presentation.
Your guests will appreciate the refreshing flavors and the tender, juicy chicken that melts in their mouths.
Maple Mustard Smoked Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the tanginess of mustard, creating a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully when smoked.
The marinade infuses the chicken thighs with a rich flavor profile, resulting in juicy, flavorful meat with a delightful balance of sweetness and acidity.
This dish is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using fruitwood like apple or cherry for a mild flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up. Smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze and Finish: Brush the chicken thighs with any remaining marinade during the last 30 minutes of cooking to enhance the flavor and create a sticky glaze.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Maple mustard smoked chicken thighs are a delightful fusion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The combination of sweet and tangy notes makes this dish incredibly versatile, pairing beautifully with sides like roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad.
This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home, impressing both family and friends alike with its unique taste and tender, juicy texture.
Mediterranean Herb Smoked Chicken Thighs
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with these herb-infused smoked chicken thighs. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, this recipe highlights the fragrant flavors typical of Mediterranean cuisine.
The slow smoking process allows the herbs to infuse the chicken, resulting in a dish that is both aromatic and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated, then seal the bag or cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C), using a mild wood like peach or oak for a subtle flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Mediterranean herb smoked chicken thighs are a vibrant dish full of flavor and aroma, showcasing the best of Mediterranean cooking. The bright notes from the lemon and fresh herbs perfectly complement the rich chicken, making it a refreshing option for any meal.
Pair these thighs with a Greek salad or roasted potatoes for a complete Mediterranean experience that will delight your guests and leave them craving more.
Bourbon BBQ Smoked Chicken Thighs
Indulge in the robust flavors of bourbon with these BBQ smoked chicken thighs. The marinade combines the sweetness of barbecue sauce with the depth of bourbon, creating a rich, sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully when smoked.
This recipe is perfect for BBQ lovers who enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for grilling season or any casual gathering.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ½ cup bourbon
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over them. Ensure they are well-coated, then seal the bag or cover the dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using hickory or mesquite wood for a robust flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up. Smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze and Finish: In the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the chicken with additional BBQ sauce for a flavorful glaze.
- Serve: Once cooked, let the thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Bourbon BBQ smoked chicken thighs are a showstopper at any gathering, combining the rich flavors of barbecue with the unique notes of bourbon.
This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, family reunions, or any occasion that calls for delicious, hearty food.
Serve these thighs alongside classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a true BBQ feast that will have everyone coming back for more.
Jamaican Jerk Smoked Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with these Jamaican jerk smoked chicken thighs. Marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning blend that includes allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers, this recipe delivers a punch of flavor with every bite.
The smoking process adds depth to the spicy marinade, resulting in tender and juicy chicken that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings or a taste of island life.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon scotch bonnet pepper sauce (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, brown sugar, chopped thyme, allspice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, scotch bonnet sauce, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C), using a fruity wood like apple or a stronger wood like hickory for added flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Jamaican jerk smoked chicken thighs are a tantalizing way to bring the flavors of the Caribbean to your dinner table. The combination of spicy, sweet, and savory notes makes this dish a standout at any cookout or family meal.
Pair these thighs with coconut rice, grilled pineapple, or a refreshing mango salsa to enhance the island experience and satisfy your guests’ taste buds.
Cilantro Lime Smoked Chicken Thighs
These cilantro lime smoked chicken thighs are perfect for a light and zesty meal. The marinade features fresh cilantro, lime juice, and garlic, creating a vibrant flavor that beautifully complements the rich chicken.
The smoking process enhances these fresh flavors, resulting in juicy and flavorful thighs that are great for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 2 limes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, chopped cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C), using a light wood like cherry or apple for a mild flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cilantro lime smoked chicken thighs offer a refreshing and flavorful option that brightens up any meal. The combination of zesty lime and fresh cilantro brings a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with various sides.
Serve these thighs with a corn salad, black beans, or tortilla chips for a delicious and satisfying feast that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Italian Herb and Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs
Transport your taste buds to Italy with these Italian herb and garlic smoked chicken thighs. This recipe features a marinade rich in Italian herbs like basil and oregano, combined with the robust flavor of garlic.
The smoking process adds depth and complexity, resulting in succulent chicken thighs that are perfect for a family meal or an elegant dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C), using a fragrant wood like cherry or oak for a complementary flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Italian herb and garlic smoked chicken thighs are a flavorful homage to classic Italian cooking, combining aromatic herbs with the deep flavors of smoked chicken.
This dish is versatile and can be served alongside pasta, risotto, or a fresh arugula salad for a complete meal.
Your guests will be delighted by the fragrant flavors and tender, juicy texture of this irresistible chicken dish.
Orange Ginger Smoked Chicken Thighs
These orange ginger smoked chicken thighs offer a delightful fusion of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for a unique twist on your typical barbecue chicken.
The marinade combines fresh orange juice, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a bright and aromatic experience.
The smoking process enhances these flavors, resulting in juicy, tender chicken that is both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ½ cup fresh orange juice
- Zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together orange juice, orange zest, minced ginger, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated, then seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using fruitwood like apple or peach for a sweet flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up. Smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Orange ginger smoked chicken thighs bring a refreshing and vibrant flavor to your table, making them a great choice for warm-weather gatherings or family dinners.
The combination of citrus and ginger creates a delightful taste that pairs well with sides like jasmine rice, grilled vegetables, or a light salad.
This dish not only pleases the palate but also showcases a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.
Spicy Mango Smoked Chicken Thighs
If you’re a fan of sweet and spicy combinations, these spicy mango smoked chicken thighs are sure to hit the spot. The marinade features ripe mango puree combined with spicy chili paste, creating a sweet heat that penetrates the chicken.
Smoking these thighs adds a depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level, making it perfect for any summer barbecue or casual dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 ripe mango, pureed (or ½ cup mango puree)
- 2 tablespoons chili paste (like Sriracha or Thai chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together mango puree, chili paste, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C), using a fruity wood like cherry or apple for a sweet smoke flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess marinade drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Spicy mango smoked chicken thighs offer a mouthwatering blend of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The sweetness of the mango perfectly balances the heat from the chili, making this dish a standout at any gathering.
Serve these thighs with a side of coconut rice, grilled corn, or a fresh salsa to complement the flavors and create a delicious, tropical meal that everyone will enjoy.
Rosemary Lemon Smoked Chicken Thighs
Rosemary lemon smoked chicken thighs bring together the fragrant flavors of fresh rosemary and zesty lemon for a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.
This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate herbaceous flavors in their cooking.
The smoking process infuses the chicken with aromatic notes, creating a dish that is juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and thyme until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) using a light wood like apple or cherry for a mild flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up. Smoke for about 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the thighs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Rosemary lemon smoked chicken thighs are a delightful combination of bright and savory flavors, making them a perfect choice for a special dinner or a casual gathering.
The aromatic herbs and citrus create a beautifully fragrant dish that pairs well with roasted potatoes, sautéed greens, or a fresh salad. This recipe is not only simple to make but also elevates your dining experience with its elegant flavors and presentation.
Enjoy these thighs as a centerpiece at your next gathering, and watch as your guests savor every bite.
Beer Can Smoked Chicken Thighs
Beer can chicken is a classic grilling method, and when adapted for smoking, it takes the flavor to another level. The steam from the beer keeps the chicken moist while the smoke infuses it with rich, smoky goodness.
This recipe utilizes a whole can of beer to create tender, flavorful thighs that are sure to impress your guests at your next barbecue or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 can of beer (lager or pale ale)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons dry rub (your favorite BBQ rub)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the thighs, then generously apply the dry rub, ensuring all surfaces are coated.
- Prepare the Beer Can: Open the can of beer and pour out (or drink) about half. Use a can holder or place the can upright in a stable position.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C), using hickory or oak wood for a robust flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Place the beer can in the center of a smoker-safe pan. Carefully lower the chicken thighs onto the can, standing upright. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before carefully removing it from the can. Serve with your favorite sides.
Beer can smoked chicken thighs are not only fun to prepare but also deliver an incredible flavor and texture. The beer steams the chicken from the inside out, ensuring that each bite is juicy and tender.
The smoky aroma combined with the seasoning creates a mouthwatering dish that pairs well with coleslaw, corn on the cob, or your favorite potato salad.
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a great conversation starter at any gathering.
Thai Peanut Smoked Chicken Thighs
Transport your taste buds to Thailand with these Thai peanut smoked chicken thighs. The marinade features a rich blend of peanut butter, soy sauce, and spices that give the chicken a unique flavor profile.
Smoking the thighs allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a savory and slightly spicy dish that’s perfect for fans of Asian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili paste (optional for heat)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, minced garlic, minced ginger, chili paste, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure all pieces are well-coated, then seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C), using a light wood like apple or cherry for a subtle sweetness.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Thai peanut smoked chicken thighs are a delicious and exotic dish that brings a taste of Southeast Asia to your table. The creamy, nutty sauce paired with the smoky chicken creates a complex flavor that is sure to impress.
Serve these thighs with jasmine rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh cucumber salad to complete the meal and enjoy a culinary journey that your taste buds will thank you for.
Honey Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs
Sweet and savory, honey garlic smoked chicken thighs are an irresistible option for any occasion. The marinade combines honey and garlic, creating a rich glaze that caramelizes beautifully during the smoking process.
This recipe is perfect for those who love a little sweetness in their savory dishes, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- ¼ cup honey
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar, minced ginger, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or dish, pouring the marinade over them. Ensure they are well-coated, then seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C), using fruitwood like cherry or apple for a mild, sweet flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the thighs in the smoker, skin-side up, and smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Honey garlic smoked chicken thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory that will tantalize your taste buds. The rich glaze adds a beautiful shine and flavor that pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or grilled vegetables.
This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a fantastic choice for gatherings or special occasions.
Your guests will be asking for seconds, and you may find yourself making this recipe time and time again!
Note: More recipes are coming soon!