I still remember the first time I made these smoked chicken thighs. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon, and the kids were playing in the backyard while I fired up the smoker. My husband peeked outside, curious about the sweet, smoky aroma drifting through the air. That day, we didn’t just make dinner—we made a memory around the picnic table, laughing with sticky fingers and full hearts. 💛
Hi, I’m Monica—the home chef behind Yum Today Recipe—and today I’m bringing you one of my favorite backyard classics: Smoked Chicken Thighs. They’re juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy to love. I season them with my signature sweet rub (it’s a crowd favorite!), smoke them low and slow, then brush them generously with a bold whiskey peach BBQ sauce that takes things to the next level. 🍑🔥
Whether it’s your first time using a smoker or you’ve got a go-to playlist for backyard barbecues, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Let’s get into it—because great food brings people together, and this dish is made to be shared.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Sweet BBQ Rub (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup peach-flavored BBQ sauce (or any sweet and tangy BBQ sauce you love)
How to Make Smoked Chicken Thighs
You don’t need to be a pitmaster to create juicy, flavor-packed smoked chicken thighs right in your own backyard. Let me walk you through each step so you can feel confident from the moment you fire up your smoker to the final, delicious bite.
Step 1: Preheat the Smoker
Start by preheating your smoker to 275°F.
This steady, moderate heat lets the chicken soak up that rich, smoky flavor while cooking through gently and evenly. Whether you’re using a pellet grill, offset smoker, or something in between, give it time to come fully to temp before placing your chicken inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Thighs
While the smoker is heating up, take a few minutes to get your chicken ready:
- Trim away any excess skin or thin pieces of meat around the edges to help the thighs cook evenly and avoid chewy bites.
- Roll each piece into a compact, even shape—this helps them cook at the same pace and look great on the plate.
Step 3: Season Generously
Grab your Sweet BBQ Rub and coat each thigh on all sides.
You don’t need to stick to an exact amount—just make sure each piece is fully covered so you get a beautiful bark and deep flavor once it hits the smoke.
Step 4: Smoke the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken thighs skin side up directly on the grates of your smoker.
Close the lid and let them cook undisturbed until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken and how consistent your smoker holds heat.
Use a meat thermometer to check—it’s the best way to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat chicken every time.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Once your chicken is fully cooked through, it’s time to add that final layer of flavor.
- Brush on a generous layer of your favorite peach BBQ sauce (or any sweet, fruity barbecue sauce you love).
- Let the thighs continue to smoke until the internal temperature reaches 170–175°F. That little bit of extra time helps the glaze set and allows the fat to finish rendering.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Take the chicken off the smoker and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
This resting time helps all those juices settle back into the meat, giving you tender, flavorful bites from start to finish.
And that’s it—pull up a chair, pass around the sides, and enjoy the kind of dinner that brings everyone to the table with a smile.
How Long Do Chicken Thighs Take to Smoke?
When it comes to smoking chicken thighs, timing can vary—but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. At 275°F, you can expect your chicken thighs to take about 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes to cook fully. That window depends on a few things, like how steady your smoker runs and how thick your chicken pieces are.
The most important thing? Cook to temperature, not to time.
Use a reliable internal meat thermometer and aim for a final temperature of 170–175°F. That’s the sweet spot where the chicken is juicy, tender, and safe to eat.
Every smoker is a little different, so give yourself permission to be patient. Good barbecue is worth the wait.
Fun Flavor Variations to Make This Recipe Your Own
One of the things I love most about this smoked chicken recipe is how flexible it is. Once you’ve nailed the method, it becomes a blank canvas for all kinds of flavor twists. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, tangy, or bold and earthy, there’s plenty of room to experiment and make it your own.
Switch Up the Seasoning Rub
If you’re ready to branch out from the sweet BBQ rub, try exploring new blends:
- Smoky & Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne, chipotle powder, or smoked paprika to your rub for a little heat.
- Herb-Forward: A mix of rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, and lemon zest gives the chicken a fresh, Mediterranean vibe.
- Savory & Bold: Try a coffee-based rub or one with a hint of cocoa powder for deep, rich undertones.
You can use store-bought blends or make your own—just focus on balancing sweet, salty, spicy, and savory.
Try a New Sauce Finish
That final glaze of BBQ sauce adds a punch of flavor, so feel free to play with it:
- Honey Mustard BBQ: Great for those who love a tangy-sweet finish.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Brush it on at the end for a rich, buttery coating with a hint of garlic.
- Mango or Pineapple Sauce: These fruit-forward options pair beautifully with smoky chicken and add a tropical twist.
Don’t be afraid to mix your favorite pantry ingredients to create something new—you’d be surprised how a little creativity can turn dinner into something exciting.
Explore Wood Flavor Pairings
The type of wood you use in your smoker can totally change the flavor profile of the chicken:
- Applewood or Cherrywood: Mild and slightly sweet—perfect for fruity BBQ sauces.
- Hickory or Oak: Stronger, more classic smoke flavors that work great with bold rubs.
- Maple or Pecan: Offer a subtle nuttiness that pairs beautifully with sweet or savory finishes.
You don’t have to overthink it—just try one wood type at a time and see what speaks to your taste buds.
Storing and Reheating
How to Store Leftover Smoked Chicken Thighs
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat—these smoked chicken thighs hold onto their flavor beautifully and reheat like a dream. I always like to make a few extra because they’re perfect for quick lunches, wraps, or tossing into salads the next day.
Here’s how to store them the right way:
- Refrigerate: Let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Want to save some for later? Wrap each thigh tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: For the best results, reheat gently in a covered skillet or in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. A splash of broth or water helps keep things moist.
Tip: If you’ve already added sauce, try storing it separately and reheating the chicken dry—then add a fresh brush of sauce right before serving. That way, you get the best texture and flavor all over again.
The Best Way to Reheat Smoked Chicken Thighs
Leftover smoked chicken thighs are just too good to let go to waste—and with the right reheating method, you can bring back that juicy, just-off-the-smoker flavor without drying them out. I’ve reheated these plenty of times, and trust me, a little care goes a long way.
In the Oven (Best for Juicy Results)
This is my go-to method when I want the chicken to taste freshly cooked:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F.
- Place the thighs in a baking dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water.
- Cover tightly with foil and warm for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through.
The foil and added moisture help keep everything tender and juicy.
In a Skillet (Quick and Tasty)
For a crispier outside and faster cook time:
- Add a touch of oil or butter to a skillet over medium heat.
- Place the chicken in skin side down first, cover, and heat for 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
If the chicken is already sauced, heat gently to avoid burning the glaze.
In the Microwave (If You’re in a Rush)
Yes, it works—just use a bit of extra care:
- Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel.
- Heat in 30-second intervals, flipping as needed, until warmed through.
It’s not the smokiest method, but it’ll still hit the spot on a busy day.
Why These Smoked Chicken Thighs Are a Backyard Favorite
I might be a little biased, but these smoked chicken thighs truly deserve a spot in your weeknight rotation. They’re packed with flavor, incredibly simple to make, and don’t require any fancy tricks—just good seasoning, steady smoke, and a little love.
Now, let me be clear—this isn’t a competition-style recipe with perfect skin and razor-sharp presentation. This is real backyard food, the kind you serve with a big smile and a side of napkins. Whether you’re a beginner or someone who smokes every weekend, this recipe brings smoky, sweet, and savory together in a way that just works.
If you’re ever in the mood to level up and try your hand at the competition version, I’ve got friends who’ve done just that—with great results. But for today, we’re keeping things easy, flavorful, and totally doable.
Nutritional Information for Smoked Chicken Thighs
Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving of these smoked chicken thighs. This can be especially helpful if you’re keeping an eye on your daily intake or planning balanced meals for your family.
Per Serving
Calories: 484 kcal
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Protein: 32 g
Fat: 32 g
Saturated Fat: 9 g
Cholesterol: 189 mg
Sodium: 516 mg
Potassium: 478 mg
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 12 g
Vitamin A: 230 IU
Vitamin C: 1 mg
Calcium: 27 mg
Iron: 2 mg
Please note: Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an estimate rather than a precise value. Values may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
The Kind of Dinner Everyone Looks Forward To
This isn’t just any dinner—it’s the kind of meal that has everyone asking, “Is it ready yet?” before it even hits the table. Smoked chicken thighs are one of my go-to dinners when I want something hearty, flavorful, and just a little bit special without being overcomplicated. They’re easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests on the weekend. Pair them with a fresh salad, grilled corn, or even a scoop of creamy mac and cheese, and you’ve got a meal that’s equal parts comforting and crowd-pleasing. The best part? Most of the work happens outside, so your kitchen stays clean and your evening feels relaxed.
Looking for More Easy & Delicious Dinner Ideas?
If you loved these smoked chicken thighs and want to keep the flavor train rolling, I’ve got a couple more weeknight winners waiting for you. These are hearty, satisfying, and simple to whip up—just the way we like it around here.
Grinder Pasta Salad
This Grinder Pasta Salad is everything you love about a classic Italian sub—transformed into a chilled, colorful pasta dish. It’s loaded with deli meats, cheese, crunchy veggies, and a creamy, tangy dressing that pulls it all together. Perfect for meal prep or potlucks.
Check out the full recipe here
Taco Spaghetti
Craving something cozy with a little kick? My Taco Spaghetti brings all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors into one easy one-pot pasta meal. It’s cheesy, beefy, and great for feeding a hungry crowd on a busy night.
A Little Tip That Helped Me Keep the Smoke (and Flavor) Going Strong
I’ll be honest—when I first started using my smoker regularly, I didn’t think much about maintenance. But over time, I realized that taking care of your smoker is just as important as the recipes you cook on it. I found this helpful smoker care guide from Oklahoma Joe’s, and it made all the difference for me.
Keeping your smoker clean and well-maintained doesn’t just extend its life—it keeps every cook consistent, flavorful, and frustration-free. If this recipe becomes a regular favorite in your home like it did in mine, you’ll want to bookmark that guide too.
Because here at Yum Today Recipe, we’re all about making great food and making it easy to come back to, again and again.
they Tried It – Here’s What Readers Are Saying
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Valerie says:
“I LOVE BBQ chicken, but do not have a smoker. Can these be done in the oven or air fryer? Thanks!”
Valerie, you’re not alone! So many readers are looking for ways to enjoy smoked-style flavor without a full smoker setup. Keep reading—we’re working on a variation just for you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Carey B replies:
“Valerie, I’ve seen recipes online stating air fryer chicken thighs are possible! One site said to cook at 375°F for 18 to 20 minutes, turning chicken halfway through cooking time. Worth a shot!!”
Thank you, Carey! That’s a great starting point. While it won’t have the same smoky depth, the air fryer is a fantastic alternative for busy nights—and it still gets that crispy finish we all love.