Are you looking for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal that’s also incredibly easy to make? Then look no further! This Traeger smoked chicken breast recipe delivers juicy, tender chicken bursting with smoky flavor, perfect for a quick dinner or a more elaborate meal. Forget dry, bland chicken – this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering result every time, making it one of the best recipes for flavorful, healthy eating.
This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a testament to the power of simple homemade cooking, transforming a humble chicken breast into a truly special dish. Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Your favorite Traeger wood pellets (hickory or applewood are great choices)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely and absorb the flavors better.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Smoke the Chicken:
- Preheat your Traeger smoker to 350°F (175°C). Remember to use your chosen wood pellets.
- Place the chicken breasts on the grill grates.
- Smoke for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; this is crucial for ensuring a safe and delicious meal.
- During the last 15 minutes of smoking, you can baste the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor (optional).
Rest and Serve:
- Once the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C), remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
- Slice the chicken and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the chicken breasts enough space to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker chicken breasts may require a slightly longer cooking time.
- Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Herb Chicken: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the seasoning mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the seasoning mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 1-2g
This Traeger smoked chicken breast recipe is a simple yet elegant way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. The smoky flavor is irresistible, and the ease of preparation makes it a perfect addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes. Enjoy!