When it comes to flavor-packed meals that leave you licking your fingers, smoked boneless chicken thighs reign supreme. Imagine juicy, tender chicken infused with the smoky goodness of your favorite wood chips, creating a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience. Kimchi Baked Beans Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer BBQ or cozying up at home for a comforting dinner, these thighs are sure to impress. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken recipe.
The best part? Smoked boneless chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. You can throw them on the grill, use your smoker, or even bake them in the oven if you’re feeling adventurous. Broccoli Chicken Casserole Trust me, once you’ve experienced that first bite, you’ll be planning your next gathering just to share this culinary delight with friends and family.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The smoky flavor of these chicken thighs is unbeatable and elevates any meal into something extraordinary
- They cook quickly and can be paired with various sides for a complete feast
- Their beautiful golden-brown color makes them a hit at dinner parties
- Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners without sacrificing taste!
I remember the first time I made these smoked boneless chicken thighs for my family; everyone was raving about how they could taste the love (and smoke) in every bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless Chicken Thighs: Choose skinless thighs for tenderness; they absorb flavor remarkably well during smoking.
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Smoked Paprika: This spice adds depth and enhances the smokiness; adjust to your taste.
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Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it works beautifully with the other spices.
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Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness that balances the savory notes perfectly; don’t skip this!
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality oil to help seasonings adhere better while enhancing moisture.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your preference.
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Your Favorite Wood Chips: Hickory or applewood works great for that authentic smoky flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. Steakhouse Burger Recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended—this will coat your chicken beautifully.
Marinate the Chicken Thighs: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over them and massage gently to ensure all pieces are coated evenly. Let it sit in the fridge for at least one hour.
Preheat Your Smoker or Grill: Set your smoker or grill temperature to 225°F (107°C). Adding wood chips now will infuse those tasty flavors into your chicken as it smokes.
Smoke Those Thighs!: Once ready, place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill grates or smoker racks. Close the lid and let them cook for about 2 hours until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): For crispy skin and deeper flavor, sear each thigh over direct heat for 3-4 minutes per side after smoking.
Let Them Rest Before Serving!: Remove from heat and let rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps lock in juices and keeps that delectable flavor intact.
Enjoy those beautifully smoked boneless chicken thighs alongside a fresh salad or creamy mashed potatoes—your taste buds are in for an unforgettable treat! Creamy Pepperoncini Chicken Skillet.
You Must Know
- Smoked boneless chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, perfect for any gathering
- The marinade enhances the taste, while the smoking adds a delightful depth
- They can also be easily paired with various sides to create a complete meal
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken thighs for a few hours, then smoke them at 225°F for about 2 to 3 hours. This sequence ensures maximum flavor absorption and tenderness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite spices or herbs for the marinade. Adding citrus zest or even a splash of bourbon can elevate the flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store smoked boneless chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat them gently in the oven at 350°F to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve smoky perfection, use wood chips like hickory or applewood for added flavor
- Don’t rush the marinating process; it’s essential for tenderness
- Always check internal temperature, aiming for 165°F for safety and juiciness
The first time I made smoked boneless chicken thighs, my friends declared me a grill master! Their excited faces made all those hours of practice worth it.
FAQ
What is the best marinade for smoked boneless chicken thighs?
For more inspiration, check out this sticky honey chicken recipe recipe.
A mix of olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and your favorite herbs works wonders.
How long should I smoke chicken thighs?
Smoke them at 225°F for about 2 to 3 hours until they reach 165°F internally.
Can I use skin-on chicken thighs instead?
Yes, skin-on thighs can add extra flavor and keep the meat moist during cooking.
Smoked Boneless Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Smoked boneless chicken thighs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, delivering tender, juicy meat infused with rich smoky flavors. Perfect for barbecues or cozy dinners, these versatile thighs can be grilled, smoked, or baked, making them a go-to choice for any occasion. With a simple marinade and straightforward cooking process, you’ll impress family and friends with this delicious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup wood chips (hickory or applewood)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl; pour marinade over them and massage to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 1 hour in the fridge.
- Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips for smoking.
- Place marinated chicken on grill grates or smoker racks; cook for about 2 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Sear over direct heat for an additional 3–4 minutes per side for crispy edges.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (113g)
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
