18 Delicious Smoke Chicken Thighs Recipes Ultimate

Smoky, succulent, and utterly irresistible—chicken thighs are the unsung heroes of the dinner table, especially when kissed by the flames of your grill or smoker. Whether you’re craving something sweet, spicy, or packed with umami, our roundup of 18 delicious smoked chicken thigh recipes promises to transform your meals into memorable feasts. Ready to elevate your cooking game? Let’s dive into these mouthwatering creations that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Smoky Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs

Smoky Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs

Delight your taste buds with these Smoky Maple Glazed Chicken Thighs, a perfect blend of sweet and smoky flavors that come together in under an hour.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Tip: For a smoother glaze, warm the maple syrup slightly before mixing.
  3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add chicken thighs, skin side down, and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown. Tip: Do not overcrowd the skillet to ensure even browning.
  5. Flip chicken thighs and brush half of the maple glaze over them.
  6. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove skillet from oven, brush remaining glaze over chicken, and bake for another 10 minutes. Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  8. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Perfectly glazed chicken thighs offer a crispy exterior with juicy, flavorful meat inside. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.

BBQ Smoked Chicken Thighs with Honey Mustard Sauce

BBQ Smoked Chicken Thighs with Honey Mustard Sauce

These BBQ smoked chicken thighs with honey mustard sauce are a game-changer for your next cookout. Tender, smoky, and perfectly glazed, they’re sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  2. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil.
  3. Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
  4. Coat chicken thighs evenly with the spice mix.
  5. Place chicken thighs in smoker. Smoke for 2 hours.
  6. While chicken smokes, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and Dijon mustard in a bowl for the glaze.
  7. After 2 hours, brush chicken thighs with half of the glaze.
  8. Continue smoking for another 30 minutes.
  9. Brush with remaining glaze and smoke for final 30 minutes.
  10. Remove from smoker when internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Enjoy the crispy skin and juicy interior of these thighs. Serve them atop a fresh salad or with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs

Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs

Zesty and bold, these Chipotle Smoked Chicken Thighs bring a smoky depth with a spicy kick. Perfect for summer grilling, they’re easy to prep and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chipotle powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup applewood chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Soak applewood chips in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a bowl, mix chipotle powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil, then evenly coat with the spice mix.
  4. Place drained applewood chips in the smoker box or directly on the coals for smoke.
  5. Arrange chicken thighs on the smoker rack, skin side up. Close the lid.
  6. Smoke for 2 hours, maintaining temperature at 225°F. Check smoke levels occasionally, adding more chips if needed.
  7. Increase smoker temperature to 375°F. Cook for an additional 15 minutes to crisp the skin.
  8. Remove chicken thighs from the smoker. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Now, these thighs boast a crispy skin with tender, juicy meat underneath. Serve them atop a fresh salad or with a side of grilled corn for a complete meal.

Applewood Smoked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Butter

Applewood Smoked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Butter

Venture into the smoky, savory world of Applewood Smoked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Butter, a dish that promises depth and richness with every bite.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup applewood chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Soak applewood chips in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil. Season evenly with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  3. Place chicken thighs in smoker. Add drained applewood chips to the smoker box.
  4. Smoke chicken for 2 hours, maintaining smoker temperature at 225°F.
  5. Combine melted butter and minced garlic in a small bowl. Brush mixture over chicken thighs.
  6. Increase smoker temperature to 375°F. Continue cooking chicken for 15 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Remove chicken from smoker. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Lusciously tender with a crispy skin, these thighs boast a perfect balance of smoky and buttery flavors. Serve atop a bed of creamy polenta or alongside a crisp apple slaw for a complete meal.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Bourbon Peach Glaze

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Bourbon Peach Glaze

Kick off your summer BBQ with these smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy smoked chicken thighs. Perfect for a crowd, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

  • 4 lbs chicken thighs
  • 1 cup bourbon
  • 2 cups peach preserves
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  2. In a saucepan, combine bourbon, peach preserves, and apple cider vinegar. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes until thickened. Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.
  3. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Rub mixture evenly over chicken thighs. Tip: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking for even cooking.
  4. Place chicken thighs in smoker. Smoke for 2 hours. Tip: Maintain a consistent temperature for best results.
  5. Brush thighs with bourbon peach glaze every 30 minutes during the last hour of smoking.
  6. Remove from smoker when internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Zesty and tender, these thighs boast a perfect balance of smoke and sweetness. Serve atop a crisp green salad or with grilled corn for a complete meal.

Hickory Smoked Chicken Thighs with Spicy Rub

Hickory Smoked Chicken Thighs with Spicy Rub

Nothing beats the deep, smoky flavor of hickory-smoked chicken thighs, especially when they’re coated in a spicy rub that packs a punch.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup hickory wood chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Soak hickory wood chips in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
  2. In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create the rub.
  3. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Brush each thigh lightly with olive oil.
  4. Apply the spice rub evenly over all sides of the chicken thighs.
  5. Place the drained wood chips in the smoker. Arrange chicken thighs on the smoker rack, skin side up.
  6. Smoke the chicken thighs for 2 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature of 225°F.
  7. Check the internal temperature of the chicken thighs with a meat thermometer. They’re done when they reach 165°F.
  8. Remove the chicken thighs from the smoker. Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Bold flavors and a crispy skin make these hickory-smoked chicken thighs unforgettable. Serve them alongside a cool coleslaw to balance the heat.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar and Paprika

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Brown Sugar and Paprika

Zesty and flavorful, these smoked chicken thighs are a must-try for any barbecue enthusiast. The combination of brown sugar and paprika creates a perfect balance of sweet and smoky.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tbsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Use hickory or apple wood chips for best flavor.
  2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better.
  4. Apply the rub evenly on all sides of the chicken thighs. Don’t forget under the skin.
  5. Place chicken thighs on the smoker grate. Ensure they are not touching.
  6. Smoke for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices inside.

Amazingly tender with a crispy skin, these thighs are great with coleslaw or cornbread. Try drizzling with a bit of honey for extra sweetness.

Mesquite Smoked Chicken Thighs with Lemon Herb Marinade

Mesquite Smoked Chicken Thighs with Lemon Herb Marinade
Venture into the world of smoky flavors with this straightforward recipe that promises juicy, tender chicken thighs every time. Perfect for weekend grilling or a quick weeknight dinner, these thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon herb mixture before hitting the smoker.

Ingredients

– 4 chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp chopped rosemary
– 1 tbsp chopped thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup mesquite wood chips

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp chopped rosemary, 1 tbsp chopped thyme, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
2. Add 4 chicken thighs to the bowl, ensuring each is fully coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Soak 1 cup mesquite wood chips in water for 30 minutes before smoking to ensure they smolder rather than burn.
4. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Drain the wood chips and add them to the smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Place the marinated chicken thighs on the smoker rack, skin side up. Close the lid.
6. Smoke the chicken thighs for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
7. Remove the chicken thighs from the smoker and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Kick back and enjoy the smoky, herby goodness of these chicken thighs. Serve them atop a crisp salad or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Cherry Cola BBQ Sauce

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Cherry Cola BBQ Sauce

Over the weekend, I discovered a game-changing recipe that combines smoky, tender chicken with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 cup cherry cola
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
  2. Season the chicken thighs evenly with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker. Smoke for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  4. While the chicken smokes, combine cherry cola, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a saucepan over medium heat.
  5. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce heat to low. Cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
  6. Brush the smoked chicken thighs with the cherry cola BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of smoking.
  7. Remove the chicken from the smoker. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Yield smoky, juicy chicken thighs with a sticky, flavorful glaze. Perfect for pairing with a crisp coleslaw or atop a fluffy biscuit.

Pecan Smoked Chicken Thighs with Rosemary

Pecan Smoked Chicken Thighs with Rosemary

Craving a smoky, herb-infused chicken dish that’s both juicy and flavorful? These pecan smoked chicken thighs with rosemary are a game-changer for your next BBQ.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • 1 cup pecan wood chips

Instructions

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F using pecan wood chips for that distinct smoky flavor.
  2. Rub chicken thighs evenly with olive oil, ensuring full coverage for moisture.
  3. Season both sides of the thighs with salt and black pepper, pressing gently to adhere.
  4. Place rosemary sprigs under the skin of each thigh for an aromatic infusion.
  5. Arrange thighs on the smoker rack, leaving space between each for even smoking.
  6. Smoke for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, checking with a meat thermometer.
  7. Rest the thighs for 5 minutes before serving to lock in juices.

Outstandingly tender with a crispy skin, these thighs boast a deep pecan smokiness balanced by fresh rosemary. Serve atop a creamy polenta or alongside a crisp apple slaw for contrasting textures.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Teriyaki Glaze

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Pineapple Teriyaki Glaze

Bold flavors meet in this dish, combining smoky and sweet for a standout meal. Perfect for summer grilling or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 1 cup pineapple juice
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Use hickory or apple wood chips for best flavor.
  2. Season chicken thighs with black pepper. Place in smoker.
  3. Smoke for 1.5 hours, maintaining steady temperature.
  4. Combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in saucepan. Tip: Simmer glaze to thicken, stirring occasionally.
  5. Bring glaze to boil over medium heat. Reduce to simmer for 15 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Brush thighs with glaze after 1.5 hours of smoking. Tip: Apply glaze in layers for deeper flavor.
  7. Continue smoking for 30 more minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  8. Remove from smoker. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Tip: Resting ensures juices redistribute.

Hearty and flavorful, these thighs boast a sticky glaze with a hint of heat. Serve over rice with extra glaze for dipping or slice for tacos.

Whiskey Smoked Chicken Thighs with Smoked Gouda

Whiskey Smoked Chicken Thighs with Smoked Gouda

Whiskey smoked chicken thighs with smoked gouda bring a bold flavor to your table. Perfect for weekend grilling.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 1/2 cup whiskey
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 cup smoked gouda, shredded

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  2. In a bowl, mix whiskey, olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  3. Place chicken thighs in the mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Marinate for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
  5. Place chicken thighs in the smoker. Smoke for 2 hours, maintaining 225°F.
  6. Check internal temperature of chicken thighs with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
  7. Sprinkle shredded smoked gouda over each thigh during the last 10 minutes of smoking.
  8. Remove from smoker and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Zesty and smoky, these chicken thighs pair well with a crisp salad. The gouda adds a creamy texture that melts perfectly over the tender meat.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Jalapeno and Lime

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Jalapeno and Lime
Smoky flavors meet zesty lime and spicy jalapeno in this easy-to-make dish. Perfect for summer grilling or indoor smoking, these thighs pack a punch.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 jalapenos, sliced
  • 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Use hickory or applewood chips for best flavor.
  2. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil. Tip: Ensure even coating for crispy skin.
  3. Mix smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Sprinkle over thighs.
  4. Place thighs in smoker. Smoke for 2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  5. While smoking, toss jalapeno slices with lime juice. Let sit to marinate.
  6. Remove thighs from smoker. Let rest for 5 minutes. Tip: Resting locks in juices.
  7. Top thighs with marinated jalapenos before serving. Tip: Add extra lime juice for more zest.

The chicken thighs are juicy inside with a smoky, crispy skin. Serve with a side of grilled corn or over a bed of cilantro rice for a complete meal.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Mango Habanero Sauce

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Mango Habanero Sauce

Here’s a straightforward recipe for smoked chicken thighs with a spicy mango habanero sauce that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 cup mango habanero sauce
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  2. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil.
  3. Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a bowl.
  4. Season chicken thighs evenly with the spice mix.
  5. Place chicken thighs in the smoker.
  6. Smoke for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  7. Brush mango habanero sauce on chicken thighs during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
  8. Remove from smoker and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Chicken thighs come out juicy with a perfect smoky flavor. The mango habanero sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick. Serve with a side of coleslaw to balance the heat.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Crust

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Garlic Parmesan Crust
You won’t believe how these smoked chicken thighs with a garlic parmesan crust will elevate your BBQ game. Simple ingredients, explosive flavors.

Ingredients

– 4 chicken thighs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp minced garlic
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Use hickory wood chips for a deep smoke flavor.
2. Rub chicken thighs with olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick.
3. Mix parmesan cheese, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
4. Press the parmesan mixture onto each thigh, coating evenly. Tip: Let them sit for 10 minutes to set the crust.
5. Place thighs in smoker. Smoke for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Tip: Avoid opening the smoker too often to maintain temperature.
6. For a crispier crust, broil thighs for 2-3 minutes after smoking. Tip: Watch closely to prevent burning.

These thighs come out juicy with a smoky, cheesy crust that’s irresistibly crispy. Serve atop a creamy polenta or with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Sweet and Spicy Dry Rub

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Sweet and Spicy Dry Rub
Fire up your smoker for a dish that balances heat and sweetness perfectly. These smoked chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser, with a dry rub that packs a punch.

Ingredients

– 2 lbs chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tbsp garlic powder
– 1 tbsp onion powder
– 1 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Use hickory or apple wood for best flavor.
2. In a bowl, mix 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper.
3. Pat 2 lbs chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better.
4. Generously apply the dry rub to all sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Place the thighs on the smoker grate. Ensure they’re not touching for even smoke circulation.
6. Smoke for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Check with a meat thermometer.
7. Let the thighs rest for 10 minutes before serving. This locks in the juices.
Crispy skin and tender meat make these thighs irresistible. Serve them with a side of coleslaw to cut through the sweetness.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Blueberry BBQ Sauce

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Blueberry BBQ Sauce

Craving something smoky and sweet? These smoked chicken thighs with blueberry BBQ sauce are a game-changer. Perfect for summer grilling.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • 1/2 cup ketchup
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  2. Season chicken thighs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Place chicken thighs in smoker. Smoke for 2 hours.
  4. While chicken smokes, combine blueberries, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a saucepan.
  5. Bring sauce to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Remove sauce from heat. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender.
  7. After 2 hours, brush chicken thighs with blueberry BBQ sauce.
  8. Increase smoker temperature to 350°F. Smoke chicken for another 30 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  9. Remove chicken from smoker. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Unbelievably tender, the chicken pairs perfectly with the tangy-sweet sauce. Serve atop a crisp salad or with grilled corn for a complete meal.

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Cilantro Lime Crema

Smoked Chicken Thighs with Cilantro Lime Crema

Want a dish that packs a punch with minimal fuss? These smoked chicken thighs with cilantro lime crema deliver bold flavors and juicy tenderness every time.

Ingredients

  • 4 chicken thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 garlic clove, minced

Instructions

  1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
  2. Coat chicken thighs with olive oil.
  3. Mix salt, pepper, and smoked paprika in a small bowl.
  4. Rub spice mixture evenly over chicken thighs.
  5. Place chicken thighs in smoker. Smoke for 2 hours.
  6. Check internal temperature of chicken thighs with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F.
  7. While chicken smokes, combine sour cream, cilantro, lime juice, and minced garlic in a bowl. Stir well.
  8. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after smoking.
  9. Serve smoked chicken thighs with a generous dollop of cilantro lime crema.

Crispy skin and smoky flavor make these thighs irresistible. Try serving them over a bed of quinoa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

These 18 delicious smoked chicken thigh recipes offer a treasure trove of flavors to explore, perfect for any home cook looking to spice up their meal routine. Whether you’re a smoking novice or a seasoned pitmaster, there’s something here to delight your taste buds. We’d love to hear which recipes you try and love—don’t forget to leave a comment and share your favorites on Pinterest!

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