When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to your meals, few things beat the rich, smoky taste of smoked chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for a new twist on classic dishes, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouth-watering smoked chicken recipes. From comforting casseroles and hearty stews to zesty salads and savory sandwiches, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of smoked chicken, featuring everything from classic hickory-smoked thighs to spicy maple-glazed wings. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple and comforting or bold and adventurous, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to hit the spot.
Classic Hickory Smoked Chicken
Classic Hickory Smoked Chicken: A Timeless BBQ Favorite
This recipe yields tender, juicy chicken with a rich, hickory-smoked flavor that’s perfect for backyard barbecues or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup hickory wood chips
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both chicken breasts.
4. Place the chicken in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 2 hours.
5. After 2 hours, brush the chicken with barbecue sauce.
6. Continue smoking for another 30 minutes to allow the sauce to set.
7. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
Spicy Maple-Glazed Smoked Chicken
Elevate your smoked chicken game with this sweet and spicy glaze, featuring the warmth of maple syrup and a kick of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
3. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, skin side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Smoked Chicken with Garlic Butter
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the pungency of garlic butter, creating a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the smoker, leaving space between each piece.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast.
5. Close smoker lid and cook for 2-1/2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and brush with chicken broth during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Applewood Smoked Chicken Thighs
This recipe combines the rich flavor of applewood smoke with tender and juicy chicken thighs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1 cup applewood chips
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken thighs.
4. Place chicken thighs in the smoker, closing the lid after adding the applewood chips.
5. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Wings with BBQ Rub
Elevate your snack game with these tender and flavorful smoked chicken wings smothered in a sweet and tangy BBQ rub.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup BBQ rub (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cups wood chips (hickory or your preferred type)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, mix together BBQ rub, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Add the chicken wings to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the rub mixture.
4. Place the wings in the smoker, leaving space between each wing for even cooking.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 hours or until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Brush the wings with olive oil during the last 15 minutes of smoking to add a crispy finish.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Citrus-Herb Smoked Whole Chicken
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of citrus with the savory flavor of herbs to create a mouthwatering whole chicken dish. Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings, this smoky delight is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken in a large smoker box or foil pan lined with aluminum foil.
4. Brush the citrus-herb mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Chicken Drumsticks with Honey Mustard
Elevate your snack game with this sweet and tangy twist on traditional chicken drumsticks. This recipe combines the richness of smoked chicken with the brightness of honey mustard, perfect for a quick and satisfying appetizer or party favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken drumsticks in a large container or zip-top bag. Pour the honey mustard mixture over the chicken and toss to coat.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 hours, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or baked beans.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Cajun-Spiced Smoked Chicken Breast
Get ready to bring the bold flavors of Louisiana to your backyard with this smoky and spicy chicken breast recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning blend (containing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, black pepper, cumin)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning blend, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
4. Place the chicken breasts in the smoker, leaving space between each breast for even cooking.
5. Smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with lemon wedges (if desired).
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these mouthwatering Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or potluck. With the combination of smoky chicken, sweet pineapple, and tangy BBQ sauce, you’ll be the star of the show!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– BBQ sauce for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and pineapple; toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken and pineapple onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
4. Place skewers in the smoker or grill for 2-3 hours, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve with BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the creamy freshness of avocado crema, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: cilantro, sour cream, shredded cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, and olive oil. Rub mixture all over chicken breasts.
3. Smoke or grill chicken for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Shred chicken with two forks and season with salt and pepper.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning shredded chicken onto tortillas and topping with avocado crema (mash ripe avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper).
7. Garnish with red onion slices and any desired toppings.
Cook Time: 4-5 hours (smoking/grilling) + 20-30 seconds (warming tortillas)
Smoked Chicken Salad with Cranberries
Smoked Chicken Salad with Cranberries Recipe
A refreshing twist on a classic salad, this Smoked Chicken Salad with Cranberries combines the smoky flavor of smoked chicken with the sweetness of cranberries and tanginess of mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked chicken breast, diced
– 4 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced smoked chicken, cranberries, feta cheese, and pecans.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Bacon Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the smoky goodness of chicken and bacon, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. These flavorful bites are perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 2 large flour tortillas
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cheese, and chopped onion.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the chicken mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the filling is heated through.
5. Flip the quesadilla and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
7. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Chicken Chili with Beans
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with tender beans, all in a thick and satisfying broth. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, smoked (or substitute with cooked chicken)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the smoked chicken, black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder
A hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Smoked Chicken and Corn Chowder combines the rich taste of smoked chicken with the sweetness of corn and creaminess of potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, smoked (such as applewood-smoked or hickory-smoked)
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh corn kernels
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the smoked chicken, corn, potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover the mixture, then bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Chicken Alfredo Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked chicken and creamy alfredo sauce with linguine pasta for a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together liquid smoke and olive oil. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breast.
3. Bake the chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a large skillet, combine heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the cooked pasta and smoked chicken to the cream sauce. Toss until well combined.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A hearty and comforting dish perfect for a cozy evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the diced chicken, mixed vegetables, flour, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until the mixture is heated through.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch (23cm) deep-dish pie plate.
5. Fill the pie crust with the chicken and vegetable mixture.
6. Roll out the remaining pie crust to fit the top of the pie. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with the nutty taste of wild rice and a hint of spice, making it a perfect comfort food for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup wild rice
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (or use liquid smoke for a similar flavor).
2. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
4. Add wild rice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add smoked chicken, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including smoking time)
Smoked Chicken Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your stuffed bell pepper game with this deliciously smoky twist! Tender smoked chicken, crunchy bell peppers, and creamy cheese come together in a flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup wood chips (your preferred type of smoking wood)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a bowl, mix chicken with olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken mixture, leaving space at the top.
4. Place peppers in the smoker for 45 minutes.
5. Sprinkle cheese on top of each pepper and return to smoker for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Smoked Chicken Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Transform your nacho game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked chicken with a creamy cheese sauce, all on top of crispy tortilla chips.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked chicken breast, shredded
– 1 cup tortilla chips
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, jalapeños, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together shredded cheese and paprika.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla chips.
5. Top with shredded smoked chicken.
6. Drizzle half-and-half or heavy cream over the nachos.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and any desired toppings.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Smoked Chicken and Mango Salsa Wraps
Experience the fusion of smoky chicken, sweet mango, and tangy salsa wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 8-10 large tortillas
– Mango Salsa (store-bought or homemade)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F. Season chicken with smoked paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
2. Smoke chicken for 4-5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Shred chicken into bite-sized pieces.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by spreading shredded chicken onto a tortilla, followed by a spoonful of Mango Salsa and desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking time), plus assembly
Summary
Get ready to elevate your mealtime with these mouthwatering smoked chicken recipes! From classic hickory smoked chicken to spicy maple-glazed and everything in between, this collection has something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, these 20 recipes are sure to impress. Try your hand at smoky wings with BBQ rub, citrus-herb whole chickens, or creamy smoked chicken pasta – the possibilities are endless! With flavors ranging from sweet and tangy to savory and spicy, there’s something for everyone in this delicious roundup of smoked chicken recipes.
