When it comes to smoked chicken thighs, there’s no shortage of flavor possibilities. From classic BBQ dry rubs to international inspirations like Korean Gochujang and Cajun spices, the options are endless. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering smoked chicken thigh recipes that pack a punch when it comes to bold flavors.
Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out with smoking, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating tender, juicy, and full-flavored chicken thighs that are sure to impress. From sweet and tangy glazes to spicy and savory rubs, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll delve into each of these 18 recipes, exploring the flavors, ingredients, and techniques used to create these mouthwatering dishes. So grab your smoker, sharpen those knives, and get ready to dive in!
Honey Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this mouthwatering recipe, perfect for a special occasion or everyday delight.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wood chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, smoked paprika, and salt.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow dish and brush both sides with the honey-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with pepper.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs
Spicy Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe
A spicy twist on classic smoked chicken, these chipotle-infused thighs will add a bold and smoky flavor to your next barbecue or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Apply the chipotle mixture evenly to the chicken thighs, making sure they’re well-coated.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker or grill and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Maple Bourbon Smoked Chicken Thighs
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of maple syrup and bourbon as it infuses into tender, juicy chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in the smoker, skin side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the chicken thighs.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Lemon Pepper Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this bright and citrusy smoked chicken recipe, featuring a zesty lemon pepper crust.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup lemon pepper seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, and brown sugar.
3. Remove the chicken skin and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of the chicken thighs with olive oil, then coat evenly with the lemon pepper mixture.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving some space between each piece.
6. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
BBQ Dry Rub Smoked Chicken Thighs
Transform your chicken thighs into tender, flavorful masterpieces with this easy and delicious BBQ dry rub recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup BBQ dry rub (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ dry rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
4. Generously apply the dry rub mixture to both sides of the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each thigh for even cooking.
6. Smoke the chicken thighs for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Alabama White Sauce
A Southern classic gets a smoky twist! This recipe combines tender chicken thighs smoked to perfection and slathered in a creamy Alabama white sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and your favorite dry rub.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. While the chicken is smoking, mix together the mayonnaise, green onions, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce (if using).
5. Once the chicken is cooked, slather each thigh with the Alabama white sauce.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Jerk Seasoned Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this Caribbean-inspired recipe featuring jerk seasoned smoked chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Apply the jerk spice mixture evenly to both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
6. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Peach Glaze
Elevate your barbecue game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken thighs with a luscious peach glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup peach preserves
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, skin side up. Close the lid and smoke for 4 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the peach glaze all over the chicken thighs.
5. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (including resting time)
Smoked Chicken Thighs Adobo Style
Experience the bold flavors of the Philippines with this easy and delicious recipe for Smoked Chicken Thighs Adobo Style.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and paprika.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker and brush with the adobo mixture.
4. Close the smoker lid and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Herb Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken thighs with a tangy and aromatic herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, parsley, chives, lemon zest, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, skin side down. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, spread a tablespoon of the herb butter on each thigh, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Korean Gochujang Smoked Chicken Thighs
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this simple recipe that combines sweet and spicy elements.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large ziplock bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and massage to coat evenly. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking.
5. Smoke the chicken for 3-4 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Mango Salsa
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with the sweet and smoky combination of Smoked Chicken Thighs paired with a refreshing Mango Salsa. This recipe is perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (apple or cherry work well)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, closing the lid. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro in a bowl.
6. Serve the smoked chicken thighs with the Mango Salsa on the side.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cajun Spiced Smoked Chicken Thighs
Cajun Spiced Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe
Add a burst of bold flavor to your chicken with this Cajun-inspired recipe, featuring smoky spices and a hint of cayenne pepper. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker or grill, closing the lid to maintain heat and smoke circulation.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and brush with chicken broth.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Teriyaki
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken thighs with the tanginess of pineapple teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup pineapple teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together pineapple teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. During the last hour of cooking, brush the chicken with the pineapple teriyaki mixture every 30 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Garlic Parmesan Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, the pungency of garlic, and the tenderizing power of smoking. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend cookout!
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Rub the garlic-Parmesan mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the smoker and brush with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle smoked paprika over the top of each thigh and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Mustard Molasses Glaze
Elevate your chicken game with this smoky, sweet, and tangy recipe that’s sure to please. Smoked chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with a rich mustard molasses glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Meanwhile, combine brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, molasses, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Brush the glaze all over the smoked chicken thighs during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 30 minutes (glazing)
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful smoked recipe, perfectly seasoned with rosemary and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, olive oil, rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Hot Honey Drizzle
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this sweet and savory twist on classic smoked chicken thighs.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup hot honey (see note)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood, such as hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together hot honey, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in a large container or zip-top bag. Pour the hot honey mixture over the chicken, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Add wood chips to your smoker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Smoke chicken thighs for 3-4 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Drizzle with any remaining hot honey mixture before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
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