As the sun shines bright and the temperatures rise, there’s no better way to enjoy a delicious meal than with some mouth-watering grilled chicken. And when it comes to smoking, the possibilities are endless! Whether you’re looking for classic comfort food or something more adventurous, our collection of 18 flavorful smoked chicken recipes has got you covered.
From succulent whole chickens smothered in herb rubs to spicy wings and drumsticks slathered in chipotle glaze, we’ve rounded up some of the most mouth-watering and easy-to-make smoked chicken recipes perfect for your next summer gathering. So grab your smoker, don your apron, and get ready to elevate your grilling game with these delectable and satisfying recipes!
Classic Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Rub
Classic Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Rub: A Deliciously Simple Recipe
This recipe yields a mouthwatering, tender whole chicken smothered in a flavorful herb rub and slow-cooked to perfection using your smoker. With minimal effort, you’ll be rewarded with a show-stopping main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, 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. Close the lid and smoke for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Baste with olive oil every hour during the last 2 hours of cooking.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings with Chipotle Glaze
Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings with Chipotle Glaze Recipe
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic chicken wings! This recipe combines the richness of smoked chicken with the spicy kick of chipotle peppers and a sweet, sticky glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken wings
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, and chipotle peppers.
3. Place chicken wings in the smoker and cook for 2 hours or until tender.
4. Remove wings from smoker and brush with the chipotle glaze.
5. Return wings to the smoker for an additional 30 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar BBQ Sauce
A sweet and tangy twist on traditional BBQ sauce, this recipe adds a rich caramel flavor to tender smoked chicken thighs. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each piece.
4. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken Breast with Lemon Garlic Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful smoked chicken breast recipe, infused with the bright zing of lemon and the savory depth of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it in the smoker, closing the lid.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Chicken Drumsticks with Honey Mustard Glaze
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these tender and flavorful smoked chicken drumsticks smothered in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 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, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken drumsticks with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Place the drumsticks in the smoker, closing the lid to maintain temperature and smoke.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Brush the honey mustard glaze all over the drumsticks during the last 10 minutes of smoking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Smoked Chicken Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the tender flavors of smoked chicken with creamy avocado and a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a topping for your favorite greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked and shredded smoked chicken
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine smoked chicken, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (prep only)
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this flavorful recipe that combines the rich taste of smoked chicken with a sweet and tangy pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 8 tacos shells
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together liquid smoke, brown sugar, and chili powder.
3. Place chicken breasts in the smoker or grill, close lid, and cook for 4-5 hours or until tender.
4. Shred cooked chicken with two forks.
5. Warm tacos shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto shells, topping with Pineapple Salsa, and adding optional toppings as desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 15 minutes (assembly)
Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters with Cajun Seasoning
Elevate your mealtime with this smoky twist on classic chicken leg quarters, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. This recipe yields tender, juicy meat with a rich, spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken leg quarters
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning blend (containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well for smoking)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F (110-120°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend and brown sugar.
3. Remove any giblets from the chicken leg quarters and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush the legs with olive oil and sprinkle evenly with the Cajun-sugar mixture.
5. Place the chicken in the smoker for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, add wood chips to enhance flavor.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Chicken Sandwiches with Coleslaw
Elevate your lunch game with this smoky twist on classic chicken sandwiches. Moist, flavorful chicken pairs perfectly with creamy coleslaw and a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 2 cups shredded cabbage
+ 1 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
+ 1/2 teaspoon sugar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C). Season chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours, or until cooked through.
3. Assemble sandwiches by placing smoked chicken on toasted buns.
4. Prepare coleslaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve sandwiches with coleslaw and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking), 15 minutes (toasting buns)
Smoked Chicken Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce
Smoked Chicken Skewers with Teriyaki Sauce Recipe Summary:
Elevate your outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners with these mouthwatering smoked chicken skewers slathered in a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd and will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup liquid smoke
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and ginger.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly onto the chicken.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful combination of smoked chicken and caramelized onions. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup smoked chicken breast, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread caramelized onions (see note) over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with smoked chicken, garlic, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle cilantro on top.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To caramelize onions, cook sliced onions over medium-low heat in a skillet with 2 tbsp olive oil for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they reach desired level of sweetness.
Smoked Chicken Chili with Black Beans
This hearty chili combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken with the depth of black beans, all wrapped up in a spicy and savory broth. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F or set oven to 275°F.
2. Smoke chicken for 2 hours, or bake for 45 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until tender.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth; stir to combine.
6. Shred smoked chicken and add to pot; simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking) or 45 minutes (baking)
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Elevate your snack game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken, melted pepper jack cheese, and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Cooking oil or butter for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a smoker or grill to 225°F. Season the chicken with garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Smoke the chicken for 3-4 hours or until tender.
3. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with shredded cheese.
5. Add the smoked chicken on top of the cheese, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Serve warm with cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (including smoking time)
Smoked Chicken Pasta with Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and creamy dish featuring tender smoked chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the bold flavors of smoked chicken with a velvety alfredo sauce and linguine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup smoked paprika
– 8 ounces linguine pasta
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, olive oil, and smoked paprika. Brush mixture on chicken breasts.
3. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours or until tender.
4. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta, smoked chicken, and alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 hours (smoking time) + 15 minutes (preparation)
Smoked Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your stuffed pepper game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken with the sweetness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine smoked chicken, cooked rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Chicken Nachos with Guacamole
Elevate your nacho game with this mouthwatering combination of smoky chicken, crunchy tortilla chips, and creamy guacamole. Perfect for a casual gathering or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 ripe avocados, halved
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
3. Top with shredded chicken, black beans, cheese, and bell pepper.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Meanwhile, mash avocado halves in a bowl with a fork.
6. Serve nachos hot with guacamole spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoked Chicken Soup with Vegetables
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tender smoked chicken, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic spices. It’s an excellent comfort food for a chilly evening or a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, potatoes, onions)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Smoked Chicken Burritos with Cilantro Lime Rice
These burritos are packed with tender smoked chicken, creamy cilantro lime rice, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a satisfying meal or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup wood chips (such as apple or cherry)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 8-10 tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Smoke for 2 hours.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Mix in cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Shred smoked chicken and add to skillet with veggies. Stir to combine.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with chicken mixture, rice, and cheese (if using). Serve with salsa and sour cream (if desired).
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking) + 15 minutes (preparing ingredients)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your summer grilling game with these 18 mouthwatering smoked chicken recipes! From classic whole chickens and spicy wings to tacos, salads, and pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try classic flavors like brown sugar BBQ sauce or lemon garlic marinade, or get adventurous with chipotle glaze, teriyaki sauce, or cajun seasoning. Whether you’re a backyard barbecue master or just looking for some new ideas, these recipes are sure to please. So fire up the grill and get cooking!
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