Are you ready to elevate your culinary game? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of smoked chicken, a staple for any occasion. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or just looking for some new inspiration in the kitchen, these 20 delicious smoked chicken recipes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic smoked chicken with honey glaze to more adventurous options like spicy smoked chicken wings and smoked chicken tacos with mango salsa, we’ve got you covered. And don’t worry if you’re new to smoking – our recipes will guide you through the process step-by-step. So what are you waiting for? Dive in and get ready to savor the smoky flavor of these mouthwatering dishes!
Smoked Chicken with Honey Glaze
Elevate your chicken game with this sweet and smoky recipe that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. The honey glaze adds a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender, smoked chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Brush the chicken with the honey glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken wings with a spicy kick!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (or use a charcoal grill with wood chips).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, chili powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove wings from packaging and pat dry with paper towels. Toss with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place wings in smoker or grill for 2-3 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, honey, and hot sauce. Brush wings with the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with BBQ Rub
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet mouthwatering recipe that combines the richness of smoked chicken thighs with a bold BBQ rub. Perfect for a quick dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ rub, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Pat dry the chicken thighs with paper towels and apply the BBQ rub mixture evenly to both sides of each thigh.
4. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving some space between each piece for even airflow.
5. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this mouthwatering smoked whole chicken recipe, smothered in a rich and aromatic herb butter. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, breast side up.
5. Spread half of the herb butter under the chicken’s skin, then place the remaining butter on top of the chicken.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Salad with Avocado
Elevate your salad game with this creamy and smoky combination of tender chicken, ripe avocado, and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked chicken breast, diced
– 2 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately on your favorite greens or as a topping for whole grain bread.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of smoky chicken and sweet mango salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these tacos are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F or use a gas grill with the lid closed.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt.
3. Place chicken breasts in the mixture and coat evenly.
4. Smoke or grill chicken for 2-3 hours, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the smoker or grill.
6. Assemble tacos with sliced smoked chicken, mango salsa, and desired toppings.
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until well combined. Serve immediately.
Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder
This creamy chowder is a perfect blend of smoky chicken, sweet corn, and tender potatoes. A comforting and flavorful soup for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast or thighs, diced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes, corn kernels, smoked chicken, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters with Garlic
Smoky Delight: Smoked Chicken Leg Quarters with Garlic Recipe
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with this easy and flavorful smoked chicken leg quarters recipe, infused with the pungency of garlic. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1/2 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the chicken leg quarters, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the chicken on the smoker, skin side up.
5. Smoke for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, baste the chicken with garlic butter (1/2 stick softened butter mixed with minced garlic).
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Smoked Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this unique combination of smoky chicken, sweet caramelized onions, and creamy mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Caramelize the onions: Cook sliced onions in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare pizza dough according to package instructions or make your own.
4. Assemble the pizza: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on the dough, followed by caramelized onions, smoked chicken, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Garnish with cilantro and garlic powder (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Bacon Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese game with the rich flavors of smoked chicken and crispy bacon. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the smoked chicken breast until heated through.
5. In a separate pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl. Pour in the milk mixture and stir until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack
Elevate your quesadilla game with the rich flavor of smoked chicken and spicy pepper jack cheese. These mouthwatering wraps are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun twist on game-day snacks.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 block Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Shred the cooked chicken with two forks.
5. Place a tortilla in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla, followed by smoked chicken.
6. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Serve hot with cilantro sprinkled on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 2-3 minutes per quesadilla
Smoked Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños
Elevate your nacho game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender smoked chicken, crispy tortilla chips, and spicy jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (16 oz) bag tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup half-and-half
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Marinate chicken in liquid smoke and olive oil for at least 30 minutes.
3. Grill or pan-fry chicken until cooked through.
4. In a separate skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with cheese, half-and-half, jalapeño slices, and smoked chicken.
6. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour (including marinating time)
Smoked Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Smoked Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers: A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers!
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast or thighs, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a large bowl, combine smoked chicken, cooked rice, cilantro, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: Total: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken with the nutty goodness of wild rice, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day. With its bold and comforting taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless smoked chicken breast
– 2 cups wild rice blend
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the wild rice blend and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Shred the smoked chicken and add it to the soup along with the mixed vegetables and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Smoked Chicken Sliders with Coleslaw
Elevate your slider game with this mouthwatering combination of tender smoked chicken, crispy coleslaw, and toasted buns. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw ingredients:
+ 2 cups shredded cabbage
+ 1 cup shredded carrots
+ 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Place chicken in the smoker for 4-5 hours or until tender and easily shredded.
4. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble sliders by placing shredded smoked chicken onto toasted buns and topping with coleslaw (see below).
6. Serve immediately.
Coleslaw Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, mayonnaise, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Smoked Chicken Caesar Salad
Elevate your salad game with this smoky twist on a classic Caesar! Smoked chicken adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup wood chips (such as apple or hickory)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 head romaine lettuce
– 1 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Caesar dressing
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or charcoal grill to 225°F.
2. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
3. Chop smoked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a large bowl, combine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and Caesar dressing.
5. Toss in chopped chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (smoking time) + prep time
Smoked Chicken and Potato Hash
Elevate your breakfast game with this savory smoked chicken and potato hash recipe. Smoky chicken pairs perfectly with crispy potatoes, onions, and bell peppers for a hearty morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours or grill for 6-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
5. Add diced potatoes, onion, and bell peppers. Cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are golden brown.
6. Shred smoked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add to potato mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) or 12-14 minutes (grilling)
Smoked Chicken Burritos with Black Beans
This recipe combines tender smoked chicken with flavorful black beans and creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup Smoked Paprika
– 2 tbsp Olive Oil
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– 1 ripe Avocado, diced
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– Optional: Shredded Cheese, Sour Cream, Cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C). Smoke chicken for 2 hours or until tender.
2. In a separate pan, heat Olive Oil over medium-high heat. Add Garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble burritos by slicing smoked chicken, adding black beans, avocado, and any desired toppings.
5. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to melt cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (including smoking time)
Smoked Chicken Flatbread with Pesto
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful flatbread featuring smoky chicken and vibrant pesto. Perfect for a quick dinner or as a satisfying appetizer, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the pesto evenly over the flatbread, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with shredded smoked chicken, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the flavors are melded together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, smoky, and savory dish that combines the flavors of smoked chicken, spinach, and ricotta cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo shells
– 1 pound cooked smoked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine smoked chicken, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the chicken-spinach mixture and place in a baking dish.
5. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover the smoky flavor of chicken in 20 mouthwatering recipes for every occasion! From sweet and tangy to spicy and savory, this collection has something for everyone. Try Smoked Chicken with Honey Glaze, Spicy Smoked Chicken Wings, or Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Butter. For a twist on classic comfort food, try Smoked Chicken and Bacon Mac and Cheese or Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack. And don’t miss the unique flavors of Smoked Chicken Tacos with Mango Salsa or Smoked Chicken Pizza with Caramelized Onions. There’s something for every taste bud and occasion in this must-try collection!
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