Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these mouth-watering smoker chicken recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered. From classic whole chickens to finger-lickin’ good wings and drumsticks, these 20 flavorful recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of smoker chicken. You’ll discover a range of bold flavors, from spicy and smoky to sweet and tangy. With everything from simple marinades to complex rubs and glazes, there’s something for every skill level and taste bud. So grab your apron, fire up that smoker, and get ready to indulge in the rich, satisfying flavor of slow-cooked chicken.
Classic Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Rub
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this simple yet impressive recipe that yields a tender and flavorful whole chicken smoked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings with BBQ Glaze
Elevate your wing game with this unique recipe that combines the smokiness of low-and-slow cooking with a sweet and spicy BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken wings, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the wings in the smoker and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, water, honey, Dijon mustard, and chopped jalapeño pepper.
6. During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the BBQ glaze all over the chicken wings.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Butter
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken thighs with the savory goodness of garlic butter. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, these tender and juicy chicken thighs are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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 softened butter, minced garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag or a shallow dish. Add the olive oil, salt, and pepper. Massage the marinade into the chicken, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the garlic butter mixture onto the chicken thighs.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Citrus-Infused Smoked Chicken Breast
Elevate your poultry game with this refreshing twist on traditional smoked chicken breast. By infusing the meat with citrusy goodness, you’ll achieve a harmonious balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wood chips for smoking (e.g., applewood or cherry wood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the citrus mixture evenly on both sides of each breast.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Honey Mustard Smoked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken drumsticks with the tanginess of honey mustard. Perfect for a quick appetizer or party favorite!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large bowl and pour the honey-mustard mixture over them. Toss until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Quarters with Cajun Seasoning
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these quarters are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken quarters, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the chicken quarters in the smoker, leaving space between each quarter for even cooking.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Applewood Smoked Chicken with Rosemary
This recipe combines the richness of applewood-smoked chicken with the earthy flavor of rosemary, creating a harmonious balance of smokiness and herby notes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp applewood smoked salt
– 1 tsp dried rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together applewood smoked salt and dried rosemary leaves.
3. Season the chicken breasts with the rosemary-salt mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Smoked Chicken Legs with Maple Glaze
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these sweet and smoky chicken legs. The perfect combination of tender meat, crispy skin, and sticky glaze will leave your guests craving more.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs
– 1 cup wood chips (apple or cherry work well)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken legs in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. During the last hour of cooking, brush the chicken with the maple glaze every 15 minutes to achieve a sticky, caramelized coating.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Get ready to elevate your summer grilling game with these mouthwatering Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Skewers. The combination of smoky chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a hint of brown sugar is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken and pineapple chunks to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Thread marinated chicken and pineapple onto skewers.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Smoke or grill for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Smoked Chicken with Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Elevate your barbecue game with this rich and tangy smoked chicken recipe, smothered in a bourbon-infused BBQ sauce that’s sure to impress. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke chicken for 2 hours or until cooked through.
4. In a saucepan, combine bourbon, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Brush chicken with BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Let chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking) + 30 minutes (sauce application)
Smoked Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Experience the bold flavors of Texas-inspired fajitas with this simple recipe that combines tender smoked chicken, sizzling peppers and onions, and warm flour tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Season chicken with smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add peppers and onions; cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
4. Slice cooked chicken into thin strips.
5. Warm flour tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the grill or in the oven.
6. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken, peppers, and onions onto a warmed tortilla. Add desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (smoking) + 10 minutes (assembling)
Smoked Chicken Stuffed with Spinach and Cheese
Elevate your meal game with this mouthwatering smoked chicken recipe, packed with spinach and melted cheese. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, cheese, garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture.
4. Season the outside of the chicken with salt and pepper. Spray or brush with cooking oil.
5. Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the smoker, leaving space between them for even cooking.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Lemon Pepper Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful smoked chicken recipe infused with a tangy lemon pepper marinade. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with wood chips).
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Drumettes with Buffalo Sauce
Elevate your snack game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken and spicy buffalo sauce. Perfect for a quick gathering or sporting event, these drumettes are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken drumettes
– 1/4 cup wood chips (such as hickory or apple)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the wood chips, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumettes in the smoker, and cook for 30 minutes.
4. Remove the drumettes from the smoker, and brush with buffalo sauce.
5. Return the drumettes to the smoker for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or blue cheese crumbles, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Chicken with Hickory and Brown Sugar Rub
Smoked Chicken with Hickory and Brown Sugar Rub: A Sweet and Savory Delight
This recipe combines the rich flavors of hickory smoke with a sweet and spicy brown sugar rub, resulting in tender and juicy chicken that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup hickory liquid smoke
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last hour of smoking, brush the hickory liquid smoke evenly over the chicken.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this mouthwatering combination of smoky chicken, fresh avocado, and crunchy tortillas. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Salsa (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced radishes, crumbled queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F or use a charcoal grill with wood chips for 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble tacos with shredded chicken, Avocado Salsa, and desired toppings.
Avocado Salsa:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth. Serve with tacos.
Smoked Chicken with Garlic Parmesan Crust
Elevate your chicken game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken and crispy garlic parmesan crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup smoked paprika
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place chicken breasts on the smoker or grill and cook for 2-3 hours, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Sweet Chili Glaze
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken with a sweet and spicy glaze. Perfect for a summer barbecue or picnic, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
– 1/2 cup Sweet Chili Glaze (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Sweet Chili Glaze:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the Sweet Chili Glaze by whisking all ingredients together in a bowl.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the glaze onto the chicken breasts every 10 minutes.
6. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10-15 minutes (resting)
Smoked Chicken and Vegetable Medley
Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make smoked chicken and vegetable medley, featuring tender chicken breast smothered in a rich BBQ sauce and paired with a colorful mix of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large onion, peeled and sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce and olive oil.
3. Place chicken breasts in the smoker and brush with the BBQ mixture every 30 minutes for 2 hours or until cooked through.
4. Toss bell peppers, onion, and garlic with salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Serve chicken breasts with roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking), 20-25 minutes (roasting)
Smoked Chicken with Smoked Paprika and Cumin
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of smoked paprika and cumin. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Brush the chicken with the spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the chicken in the smoker or grill, closing the lid if using a smoker.
6. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Summary
Discover the art of smoking chicken with these 20 mouthwatering recipes! From classic whole chickens to succulent wings and drumsticks, these flavorful dishes are perfect for grilling. Try the Classic Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Rub or Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings with BBQ Glaze for a taste explosion. For a sweet and savory twist, go for Honey Mustard Smoked Chicken Drumsticks or Applewood Smoked Chicken with Rosemary. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
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