Easy Pellet Grill Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Updated at: 11/05/2025

Forget dry, tough chicken thighs! This recipe unlocks the juicy, smoky perfection you've always dreamed of, all achieved with the effortless convenience of your pellet grill. Smoked chicken thighs are a crowd-pleaser, offering a depth of flavor impossible to replicate with other cooking methods. The rich, smoky aroma alone is enough to entice your taste buds, promising a meal that's both satisfying and remarkably simple to prepare. Tender, flavorful meat practically falls off the bone, and the process itself is surprisingly straightforward, even for pellet grill novices.

Forget complicated techniques and long marinades; this recipe focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal effort. We'll guide you through each step, from preparing the chicken to achieving that perfect smoky bark. Ready to transform ordinary chicken thighs into an extraordinary culinary experience? Let's dive into the easy, step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Pellet Grill
  • Digital Thermometer
  • Ziploc Bag
Safety Guidelines
  • Always ensure your pellet grill is properly vented before lighting and during cooking to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken thighs reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Do not rely on visual cues alone.
  • Never leave your pellet grill unattended while in operation. Keep children and pets away from the grill and hot surfaces.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken

    • Rinse chicken thighs and apply a generous rub (your favorite or a store-bought one).
    • Place the rubbed chicken thighs in a Ziploc bag and shake to evenly coat.
    • Refrigerate the chicken for at least a few hours, or even a day or two, before smoking.
    Refrigerate the chicken for at least a few hours, or even a day or two, before smoking.Refrigerate the chicken for at least a few hours, or even a day or two, before smoking.
    Prepare the Chicken

  2. Preheat and Smoke

    • Preheat your pellet grill to 250°F (121°C).
    • Place chicken thighs on the grill and smoke for approximately 1.5 hours.
    Place chicken thighs on the grill and smoke for approximately 1.5 hours.Place chicken thighs on the grill and smoke for approximately 1.5 hours.
    Preheat and Smoke

  3. Check for Doneness

    • Check the internal temperature with a digital thermometer. Ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature (around 165°F or 74°C) and that there's no pink meat remaining.

Read more: Deep Clean Your Weber Q 2400 Electric Grill: A Comprehensive Guide

Tips

  • This recipe works on most pellet smokers; adjust the time and temperature based on your specific grill.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of rub to your preference. For bolder flavors, use more; for lighter flavors, use less.
  • The smoking time might vary depending on your smoker and the thickness of the chicken thighs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcrowding the Pellet Grill

Reason: Too many chicken thighs crammed together prevent even heat circulation and airflow, resulting in unevenly cooked and potentially dry chicken.
Solution: Ensure adequate spacing between chicken thighs to allow for proper airflow and even cooking.

2. Incorrect Pellet Grill Temperature

Reason: Using a temperature that's too high will lead to burning and drying out the chicken, while too low a temperature results in undercooked and potentially unsafe chicken.
Solution: Maintain a consistent temperature of 250-275°F (121-135°C) for optimal results.

FAQs

What temperature should I smoke my chicken thighs at?
The ideal smoking temperature for chicken thighs is between 275°F and 300°F. This ensures they cook through thoroughly and remain juicy without drying out.
How long does it take to smoke chicken thighs on a pellet grill?
Smoking time varies depending on the thickness of the thighs and your pellet grill, but generally, it takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing them from the grill.
What wood pellets are best for smoking chicken thighs?
Applewood, hickory, and pecan pellets are all excellent choices for smoking chicken thighs, imparting a delicious smoky flavor without being overpowering. Experiment to find your favorite!
While this recipe focuses on the delicious results achievable with a pellet grill, if you're exploring different grilling options and considering electric grills, you might find our comprehensive guide on top-performing electric grills helpful. Check out our review of the best Hamilton Beach electric grills to see if one might fit your needs. This will help you decide what type of cooking best suits your kitchen and culinary style, whether smoky pellet-grilled chicken or something else entirely.