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Smoked Chicken Thighs

Smoked chicken thighs are one of the easiest proteins to prepare. They are incredibly flavorful and are a great option for summer BBQs, weekly meal planning, and potlucks!
5 from 2 votes
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American BBQ
Keyword: BBQ chicken thighs, chicken thighs in smoker, smoked chicken thighs
Prep Time: 2 hours
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 4 hours
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 329kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Prepare the brine according to instructions. Brine thighs for 2 hours.
  • Remove the chicken from the brine solution, and blot dry with paper towels. Set them, skin side up, onto a clean plate or small baking dish. Refrigerate uncovered for 2 hours.
  • Preheat your smoker or grill to 250 degrees F. Use your choice of hardwood (smoker or charcoal grill) or wood pellets for pellet smoker.
  • Trim the chicken thigh skin into a square patch covering the meat, keeping one side attached. Remove any excess fat around the edges.
  • Season both sides and under the skin of each thigh with BBQ rub.
  • Place the thighs on the grill grate, skin side up. Close the lid, and cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165, about 1-1 1/2 hours.
  • Remove your smoked chicken thighs from the grill and set them onto a heat-safe wire rack or clean cutting board. Brush with BBQ sauce.
  • Remove the chicken from the grill, and place them on a clean cutting board or platter. Let them rest for 10-15 minutes, and serve.
  • Place the thighs back on the grill. Close the lid, and and cook until they reach an internal temperature of 180-185 degrees F. For fall off the bone thighs, cook until they reach 195 degrees.
  • Once cooked, place the thighs on a serving platter, and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. Serve and enjoy!
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Freeze for up to 8 weeks. Rewarm in a 325-degree oven until they reach an internal temperature 165 degrees F.

Nutrition

Calories: 329kcal | Carbohydrates: 19g | Protein: 19g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 111mg | Sodium: 548mg | Potassium: 346mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 228IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 39mg | Iron: 2mg