Smoked Chicken Thighs – Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make
This smoked chicken thighs recipe yields tender, juicy meat with a crispy, smoky crust and rich seasoning for a perfect BBQ experience.
Equipment
- Smoker
- Grill
- Oven
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4-6 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs preferably fresh
Seasonings
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil for coating
- as needed wood chips or pellets apple, hickory, or cherry recommended
Instructions
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. (Optional: Brine in saltwater for a few hours for extra juiciness.)
- Drizzle olive oil over the thighs and evenly coat with a dry rub of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your smoker to 225–250°F (107–121°C). Arrange the thighs on the grate skin-side up, ensuring proper airflow.
- Smoke the chicken thighs for 1.5 to 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption, or 175–180°F (79–82°C) for extra tenderness.
- For extra crispy skin, increase the temperature to 350°F (177°C) in the last 10–15 minutes or sear on a grill for 1–2 minutes. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
This smoked chicken thighs recipe is versatile. Experiment with different wood types and seasoning adjustments to suit your taste. Enjoy a perfect balance of smoky flavor and crispy skin every time!