smoked chicken breast recipe
Smoked chicken breast recipe that's juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for BBQ lovers looking to master tender, smoky chicken at home.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: wood chips applewood or hickory for smoking
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over each breast and rub evenly to coat.
Season Generously
- In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Rub the spice blend all over the chicken breasts.
Prepare the Smoker
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If using wood chips, soak them in water for 30 minutes, then add to the smoker box or foil pouch.
Smoke the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on the smoker grate. Close the lid and smoke for about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest Before Serving
- Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and serve warm with your favorite sides — grilled veggies, salad, or baked potatoes pair beautifully.