Are you looking for an easy, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal? Look no further! This Traeger chicken thigh recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken every single time. Forget dry, bland chicken breasts – these thighs are bursting with smoky goodness thanks to the magic of your Traeger grill. Whether you're a seasoned Traeger pro or just starting your pellet grilling journey, this recipe is perfect for you. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet impressive dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper for a little heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up beautifully on the Traeger. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Step 2: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, resulting in a more intensely delicious meal.
Step 3: Preheat Your Traeger
Preheat your Traeger to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your grill is clean and ready to go.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs skin-side up on the preheated Traeger grill grates. Cook for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken thighs and your Traeger's temperature.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is crucial for food safety.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the Traeger and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve your delicious Traeger chicken thighs with your favorite sides – roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple salad are all excellent choices.
Cooking Tips for Traeger Chicken Thighs:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the chicken thighs enough space to cook evenly. If necessary, cook them in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust cooking time as needed: Thicker thighs will take longer to cook than thinner ones.
- Experiment with flavors: Try different spice blends or marinades to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice rub.
- Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of one lemon, along with fresh rosemary and thyme, to the marinade.
- BBQ Chicken: Brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
This Traeger chicken thigh recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. The smoky flavor from the Traeger adds a depth of flavor that's hard to achieve with other cooking methods. Enjoy this delicious and easy homemade cooking experience! It’s sure to become one of your best recipes. Perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike, this recipe is a delicious addition to your repertoire of food recipes.