Traeger Smoked Chicken Thighs with Savory Dry Rub

Smoked chicken thighs are a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors and tender, juicy meat. This smoked chicken thighs recipe, designed for your pellet grill, combines a savory dry rub with the consistent, smoky heat of a Traeger to create a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or cooking for your family, these chicken thighs on pellet grill are sure to be a hit.

What sets this Traeger smoked chicken thighs recipe apart is its simplicity and depth of flavor. The dry rub forms a delicious crust while the pellet smoker infuses the meat with a rich, wood-fired aroma. With minimal effort, you can achieve perfectly cooked thighs that are crispy on the outside, moist on the inside, and packed with smoky goodness. Let’s get started and bring the mouthwatering flavors of smoked chicken thighs to your next meal!

Quick Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4–6 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 280 | Fat: 18g | Carbs: 2g | Sugar: 1g | Protein: 26g

Key Equipment:

• Traeger or pellet grill
• Meat thermometer
• Mixing bowl (for dry rub)
• Tongs or spatula

Ingredients:

• For the Dry Rub:
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• For the Chicken Thighs:
  • 6–8 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 3 lbs total)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for rubbing)

This quick guide ensures you can whip up a batch of smoked chicken thighs effortlessly. With these simple ingredients, you’re ready to make one of the best smoked chicken thighs recipes at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making these smoked chicken thighs is simpler than you might think, and with these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have juicy, flavorful chicken ready to serve in no time. Whether you’re using a Traeger or another pellet smoker, this guide will help you achieve perfectly smoked results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub

In a mixing bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly to create an even blend of spices. This dry rub is the foundation of flavor for your chicken thighs on pellet grill , so take care to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Thighs

Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres properly. If desired, lightly coat the thighs with olive oil to help the seasoning stick. Generously coat each thigh with the dry rub, pressing it into the skin and flesh to create an even layer. Let the thighs sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Preheat the Pellet Grill

Preheat your Traeger or pellet grill to 275°F–300°F (135°C–149°C). Use wood pellets like hickory, cherry, or applewood for a rich, smoky flavor that complements the chicken. These options work perfectly for smoked chicken thighs recipe and add a touch of sweetness to balance the savory rub.

Step 4: Smoke the Chicken Thighs

Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin-side up on the grill grates. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one thigh, avoiding the bone. Smoke the thighs for 1–1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown and crispy. Avoid flipping the thighs during cooking to ensure the skin stays intact and develops a delicious crust.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once the smoked chicken thighs reach the desired temperature, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 5–10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired, and serve warm alongside your favorite sides.

With this Traeger smoked chicken thighs recipe, you’ll achieve tender, juicy chicken with a crispy, smoky exterior that’s sure to impress any BBQ lover!

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Making these smoked chicken thighs is straightforward, but these expert tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish to perfection. Whether you’re aiming for juicy, flavorful chicken thighs on pellet grill or troubleshooting a step, these insights will ensure success every time.

Professional Chef Insights:

• Choose Quality Chicken Thighs: Opt for bone-in, skin-on thighs for the best flavor and juiciness. The bone helps retain moisture, and the skin crisps up beautifully when smoked.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices like black pepper and dried herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor. Avoid pre-ground spices that may have lost their potency over time.
• Enhance Smoke Flavor: For deeper smoke penetration, let the seasoned chicken thighs sit uncovered in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours before smoking. This also helps dry out the skin slightly, promoting crispiness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Skin Not Crispy Enough: If the skin isn’t crispy, increase the grill temperature slightly during the last 15 minutes of cooking or finish the thighs under a broiler for 2–3 minutes. Ensure the chicken isn’t overcrowded on the grill to allow proper airflow.
• Chicken Too Dry: If the thighs feel dry, they may have been overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C) and remove them promptly from the grill.
• Rub Not Sticking Well: If the seasoning rub isn’t adhering properly, pat the chicken thoroughly with paper towels and consider lightly oiling the surface before applying the rub.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare the dry rub for this smoked chicken thighs recipe up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container. Season the chicken thighs with the rub and refrigerate them uncovered for up to 12 hours before smoking to enhance the flavor.

Storage Guidelines:

Store leftover Traeger smoked chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.

With these tips, you’ll master the art of making a perfect smoked chicken thighs recipe like a pro!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this smoked chicken thighs recipe is its flexibility. Whether you’re catering to specific preferences or experimenting with flavors, these customizations will keep your chicken thighs on pellet grill exciting and unique for any occasion.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Add Heat: For a spicy twist, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the dry rub. You can also serve the thighs with a side of hot sauce or jalapeño-infused BBQ sauce for an extra kick.
• Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary, basil, or cilantro in the rub for a fragrant, gourmet touch that complements the rich flavors of the smoked chicken thighs recipe .
• Citrus Zest: Sprinkle lemon or orange zest over the smoked thighs before serving for a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Dietary Modifications:

• Low-Sodium Option: Reduce or omit the salt in the dry rub and use low-sodium seasonings to make this smoked chicken thighs recipe more suitable for those watching their sodium intake.
• Keto-Friendly: This recipe is naturally low-carb and keto-friendly, but double-check any store-bought sauces or seasonings you might use as substitutes to ensure they align with your dietary goals.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free spices and avoid cross-contaminated ingredients to ensure your chicken thighs on pellet smoker are safe for those avoiding gluten.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Wood Alternatives: Experiment with different wood pellets like mesquite, pecan, or maple to customize the smoky flavor profile of your smoked chicken thighs .
• Boneless Option: Swap bone-in thighs for boneless, skinless thighs if you prefer quicker cooking times. Adjust the smoking time accordingly, as boneless thighs cook faster.
• BBQ Sauce Pairings: Serve the thighs with homemade or store-bought BBQ sauces like honey mustard, bourbon glaze, or chipotle-lime for added variety.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair the smoked chicken thighs with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, baked beans, or cornbread for a comforting, hearty meal.
• Serve them with fresh grilled vegetables or a crisp green salad for a lighter option that still complements the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Package individual portions in meal prep containers with roasted potatoes or steamed greens for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Offer condiments like pickles, caramelized onions, or crispy shallots for those who want to customize their plates.
• Serve crusty bread or garlic knots on the side to soak up any flavorful juices from the chicken.

With these variations, your Traeger smoked chicken thighs recipe can suit any occasion, taste preference, or dietary need—ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making smoked chicken thighs that are juicy, flavorful, and packed with smoky goodness. Whether you’re using a Traeger or another pellet grill, this recipe delivers tender meat with crispy skin every time. With its simple preparation and bold flavors, these chicken thighs on pellet smoker are sure to become a staple at your backyard BBQs, family dinners, or meal prep sessions.

What makes this Traeger smoked chicken thighs recipe so special is its balance of ease and depth. Using just a few high-quality ingredients and your trusty pellet grill, you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for any home cook to master. Best of all, it’s adaptable to suit any taste or dietary preference, making it perfect for casual weeknight meals or special occasions alike.

So fire up the pellet grill, grab your spices, and get ready to create a dish that will leave everyone craving seconds. Happy smoking, and may every bite remind you why smoked chicken thighs are a true BBQ classic!

FAQ Section

1. What is the optimal temperature for smoking chicken thighs?

The ideal smoking temperature for smoked chicken thighs is between 275°F–300°F (135°C–149°C). This range ensures the meat cooks evenly while developing a crispy skin and rich smoky flavor.

2. How much time is needed to smoke chicken thighs?

It typically takes 1–1.5 hours to fully smoke chicken thighs, depending on their size and thickness. The thighs are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

3. Do I need to flip smoked chicken thighs during cooking?

No, you don’t need to flip the thighs. Cooking them skin-side up throughout the process allows the skin to become crispy and prevents it from sticking to the grill grates.

4. How do I store leftover smoked chicken thighs?

Store leftover chicken thighs on pellet grill in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until warmed through. For extended storage, freeze individual servings for up to 3 months.

5. Can I use a gas grill instead of a pellet grill?

Yes! While a pellet grill provides consistent heat and smoke, you can use a gas grill with a smoker box or wood chips to achieve similar results for your smoked chicken thighs recipe .

6. What side dishes complement smoked chicken thighs?

This smoked chicken thighs recipe pairs beautifully with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, mac and cheese, baked beans, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. For a lighter option, serve them with a fresh green salad or roasted potatoes.

7. Can I incorporate BBQ sauce into smoked chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Brush your favorite BBQ sauce onto the thighs during the last 15 minutes of smoking for a sticky, flavorful glaze. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping.