Are you looking for a healthy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This smoked chicken thighs recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Forget takeout – this recipe delivers juicy, smoky chicken thighs that the whole family will love. It's a fantastic example of how easy healthy meals can be!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up nicely during smoking. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Create the Glaze
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar until the sugar is dissolved. This simple glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tang that perfectly complements the smoky flavor of the chicken.
Step 3: Smoke the Chicken
Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C). Place the chicken thighs in the smoker and cook for 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken thighs with the apple cider vinegar glaze. This adds a beautiful shine and enhances the flavor.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the smoker and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy chicken. Serve your delicious smoked chicken thighs with your favorite sides – mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad all work wonderfully.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Smoked Chicken Thighs:
- Don't overcrowd the smoker: Give the chicken thighs enough space to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your chicken is cooked through.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your smoker and the thickness of the chicken thighs.
- Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices to the rub, such as cayenne pepper for a little heat, or herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Variations:
- Spicy Smoked Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the rub for a spicy kick.
- Sweet and Smoky Chicken: Increase the brown sugar in the glaze for a sweeter flavor profile.
- Citrus Smoked Chicken: Add the zest and juice of an orange or lemon to the glaze for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350
- Protein: Approximately 35g
- Fat: Approximately 20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g
This recipe for smoked chicken thighs offers a fantastic quick dinner idea, a delicious and healthy meal, and a testament to the ease of homemade cooking. The best recipes are often the simplest, and this one certainly fits the bill! Enjoy!