Pit Boss Smoked Chicken Thighs are juicy and packed with flavor! The smoky goodness combined with a crispy skin makes them a perfect choice for your next BBQ.
Honestly, who can resist that nice char and aroma? I love pairing them with a simple salad or some grilled veggies on the side for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are the star of this recipe. They stay juicy while smoking. If you prefer a leaner option, boneless chicken thighs or even chicken breasts can work, but they may require less cooking time.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted butter for a different flavor. Both options work well for grilling and smoking.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a rich, smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, but it won’t have as much smokiness. A pinch of liquid smoke in your oil can mimic that smoky flavor too.
Spices: Garlic and onion powder are great for adding depth. You can replace them with fresh garlic and onion, but use them sparingly as they can burn during the smoking process.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand! If you want a healthier option, you can try a homemade or low-sugar barbecue sauce. Alternatively, hot sauce can be used for a spicy kick.
How Do You Get Perfectly Seasoned and Juicy Chicken Thighs?
Getting your chicken thighs seasoned and juicy involves a few key techniques that can make all the difference. First, don’t skip drying the chicken. Patting it dry helps the skin get crispy during smoking. Here’s how to make sure your chicken turns out well:
- Apply olive oil evenly so the seasoning sticks well.
- Generously coat the chicken with your spice mix. Don’t be shy; seasonings create great layers of flavor!
- Monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C).
Lastly, letting your chicken rest for 10 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and full of flavor!
How to Make Pit Boss Smoked Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking. You’ll spend a little time marinating the chicken and letting the smoker do its magic. The total time from start to finish will be approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your Pit Boss smoker to 250°F (120°C). Don’t forget to add your favorite wood pellets; hickory or mesquite are great choices for added flavor!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the smoker heats up, take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that nice crispy skin! Place the dried chicken in a large mixing bowl.
3. Season the Chicken:
Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken thighs, using your hands to rub it in so each piece is evenly coated. In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you want some heat). Sprinkle this seasoning all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re well coated.
4. Smoke the Chicken:
Now it’s time to place the chicken on the smoker grates, skin side up. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know they’re done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, take your favorite barbecue sauce and brush it generously over the chicken thighs. This will create a delicious, caramelized layer on top!
6. Rest and Serve:
Once your chicken is perfectly cooked and has that tasty sauce, carefully remove it from the smoker. Let the thighs rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This will help keep them juicy!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your smoky chicken thighs hot and feel free to offer extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs! Adjust the cooking time to about 1 to 1.5 hours, as boneless thighs will cook faster. Make sure to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
What Barbecue Sauce Works Best with This Recipe?
Feel free to use any barbecue sauce you love! A sweet and tangy sauce complements the smokiness well, but if you enjoy a spicy kick, opt for a sauce infused with chipotle or jalapeño. You can also mix sauces to create a unique flavor!
How to Store Leftover Smoked Chicken Thighs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also sprinkle a little water over them and cover with foil to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! In addition to the cayenne pepper, you can add some hot sauce to the olive oil before rubbing it onto the chicken or use a spicier barbecue sauce. Adjust the amount to your heat preference for a fiery kick!
