Discover how to achieve juicy, flavor-packed smoked chicken thighs with our expert tips and tricks for the ultimate BBQ experience!
Ingredients
Scale
4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 tablespoons of smoked paprika
1 tablespoon of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of onion powder
1 tablespoon of brown sugar
2 teaspoons of salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
1 cup of chicken broth (for brining, optional)
Wood chips for smoking (hickory, applewood, or cherry wood for sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken – Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl or Ziplock bag.
Step 2: Mix the Seasoning – Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
Step 3: Apply the Rub – Drizzle the chicken thighs with olive oil and sprinkle the rub generously over them. Marinate if possible.
Step 4: Prepare the Smoker – Set the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add wood chips, then heat for about 15 minutes.
Step 5: Smoke the Chicken Thighs – Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the smoker rack and cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Rest and Serve – Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to redistribute juices.
Notes
A delicious recipe for smoked chicken thighs that are juicy and packed with flavor, perfect for impressing family and friends during backyard gatherings.
