Are you new to smoking chicken? Look no further! With these 20 mouth-watering smoker chicken recipes, you’ll be on your way to becoming a master griller in no time. From classic smoked whole chickens to spicy cajun wings and sweet honey garlic thighs, we’ve got you covered with the ultimate beginner’s guide to smoker chicken.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of smoker chicken, exploring the different types of wood chips and smoking techniques that will elevate your grilled chicken game. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for a new twist on traditional roasted chicken, these recipes are sure to impress. So grab your smoker and let’s get started!
Classic Smoked Whole Chicken
A tender and flavorful whole chicken smoked to perfection, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of flavor, such as apple or hickory)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the 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.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Spicy Cajun Smoker Chicken Wings
Get ready to level up your snack game with these mouth-watering Spicy Cajun Smoker Chicken Wings! This recipe combines the bold flavors of Louisiana’s Cajun cuisine with the tender, smoky goodness of slow-cooked chicken wings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, hot sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Toss chicken wings with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place wings in smoker and cook for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Notes:
– Adjust heat level to your liking by adding more hot sauce or Cajun seasoning.
– Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or blue cheese crumbles.
Honey Garlic Smoked Chicken Thighs
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the rich flavors of honey, garlic, and smoke. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a slow cooker).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and brush with the honey-garlic mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Smoke or cook the chicken for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Lemon Herb Chicken Breast
A classic twist on traditional chicken breast, this recipe combines the bright flavor of lemon with the subtle smokiness and freshness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place chicken breasts in the smoker and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
BBQ Smoked Chicken Drumsticks
Elevate your backyard barbecue with this simple recipe that yields tender and flavorful smoked chicken drumsticks. With a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, these drumsticks are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the drumsticks.
4. Place drumsticks in the smoker, closing lid after 30 minutes to maintain temperature.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Applewood Chips
Elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked meat with the sweetness of applewood chips. Perfect for a weekend dinner or a backyard BBQ, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup applewood chips
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker or grill, close the lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, add applewood chips to the smoker or grill to infuse the chicken with a sweet and smoky flavor.
6. Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Maple Bourbon Smoked Chicken Quarters
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this impressive dish, perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in chicken quarters
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon 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 maple syrup, bourbon, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken quarters in a large container or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken and massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until cooked through and tender.
5. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Herb Butter Baste
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the brightness of fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a tangy butter baste. Perfect for a summer cookout or a special occasion dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, lemon juice, and garlic powder.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken in smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last hour of cooking, baste chicken every 20 minutes with herb butter mixture.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Citrus Brined Smoked Chicken
This recipe combines the brightness of citrus with the rich flavor of smoke, resulting in a chicken dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The citrus brine adds a depth of flavor and tenderness to the smoked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 gallon water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, and water to create the brine. Stir until dissolved.
2. Add citrus juices, smoked paprika, and black pepper to the brine. Stir well.
3. Submerge chicken in the brine, cover with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Remove chicken from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Smoke chicken for 4-6 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours
Smoked Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these smoky, savory skewers that combine juicy chicken and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch slices
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and squash)
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker or grill to 275°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, mixed vegetables, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Thread the mixture onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place the skewers in the smoker or grill, closing the lid to maintain temperature.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Hickory Smoke
Experience the rich flavor of hickory smoke infused into tender chicken breasts. This simple recipe yields mouth-watering results, perfect for a backyard BBQ or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup hickory wood chips (soaked in water for at least 30 minutes)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). If using a charcoal or gas grill with a smoker box, follow manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the dry rub mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, away from direct heat. Close the lid and smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. After 2 hours, add soaked hickory wood chips to the smoker. Continue smoking for an additional 30 minutes to infuse the chicken with a deep, smoky flavor.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Garlic Parmesan Smoked Chicken Wings
A savory twist on classic chicken wings, these Garlic Parmesan Smoked Chicken Wings are perfect for game day gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. With the rich flavor of smoked chicken and the brightness of garlic and parmesan cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use a slow cooker or oven.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Toss chicken wings with the garlic-Parmesan mixture until well coated.
4. Place wings in the smoker and cook for 2-3 hours, or until cooked through.
5. Season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Spicy Dry Rub
Get ready for a flavor explosion! This recipe combines the rich smokiness of slow-cooked chicken with the bold heat of a spicy dry rub.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Smoked Paprika
– 2 tbsp Garlic Powder
– 1 tbsp Onion Powder
– 1 tsp Ground Cumin
– 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper
– 1/2 tsp Salt
– 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Cumin, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, and Black Pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, closing the lid.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken with Peach Glaze
Add a sweet and tangy twist to classic smoked chicken with this simple recipe featuring a peach glaze. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush chicken with peach glaze every 10 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these sweet and savory kabobs that combine the richness of smoked chicken with the tropical flavor of pineapple. Perfect for a summer gathering or potluck, these kabobs are easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken, pineapple, bell pepper, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place kabobs in smoker and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Serve warm with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Smoked Chicken with Rosemary and Thyme
Experience the rich flavors of smoked chicken infused with the aromas of rosemary and thyme. This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken with a subtle smokiness and herbal undertones.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
3. Place the chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, turning to coat evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
5. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken with Honey Mustard Sauce
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with a sticky honey mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. Meanwhile, mix honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
5. Brush sauce on chicken during last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Let chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking), 10 minutes (resting)
Smoked Chicken with Chili Lime Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this bold and zesty recipe! Smoky notes from the wood chip-infused smoker pair perfectly with the tangy kick of chili lime marinade, creating a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup chili lime marinade (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or mesquite)
– Smoker or charcoal grill
Chili Lime Marinade:
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or charcoal grill with a lid).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chili lime marinade ingredients.
3. Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag or shallow dish; pour marinade over them.
4. Seal bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove chicken from marinade; season with salt and pepper.
6. Add wood chips to smoker or charcoal grill; smoke chicken for 3-4 hours, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Smoked Chicken with Brown Sugar Glaze
Smoked Chicken with Brown Sugar Glaze: A Sweet and Smoky Delight
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with a sweet and sticky brown sugar glaze, perfect for a summer BBQ or family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with wood chips).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the smoker or grill, close lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
4. During the last hour of smoking, brush the brown sugar glaze all over the chicken every 15 minutes to caramelize the sugar.
5. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken with Garlic and Paprika Rub
Elevate your chicken game with this smoky, savory recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. This flavorful rub combines the richness of garlic and paprika to create a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, garlic, and salt.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Baste with olive oil every hour to keep the meat moist and add a layer of flavor.
6. Once cooked, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to fire up your smoker and indulge in some mouthwatering chicken dishes! This article presents 20 juicy smoked chicken recipes perfect for beginners. From classic whole chickens to spicy wings, these recipes cater to various tastes and preferences. Discover how to achieve tender, flavorful results with simple marinades, rubs, and glazes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these smoker chicken recipes will inspire your next culinary adventure.
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