Traeger Smoker Chicken Recipes

Traeger smoker chicken recipes are full of so much flavor. No matter if you're cooking chicken wings, chicken legs, chicken thighs, or want juicy chicken breasts, you're sure to find a great recipe to make here. Any home chef will delight in having these easy chicken recipes right at their fingertips. 

There's nothing quite like the flavor of Traeger smoke chicken recipes. Every bite has a good smoke flavor, and so much moisture remains, too. As you'll soon see from the list of recipes below, there are many ways to achieve that crispy skin and smoky flavor - and it's all about the cooking time and equipment. 

Find out the best ways to use your Traeger grill to cook every single easy recipe on this list. Have your meat thermometer ready - and get ready to enjoy tender meat that is perfectly cooked each and every time. 

While I know we're putting the focus on chicken recipes, be sure to try this Traeger Turkey Recipe as well. It's truly amazing all the things that you can cook and smoke on the grill. 

Traeger Smoker Chicken Recipes

All of these recipes focus on chicken and show you the perfect way to cook different types and cuts. 

Traeger Chicken Thighs

This Traeger Chicken Thighs recipe is proof of how simple it is to cook chicken. Smoked chicken thighs are not only a good idea to cook and eat, but they also give you leftover chicken that you can use for other simple recipes, too. Add a few of your favorite side dishes, and you're set. 

Smoked Stuffed Chicken Breast

I can easily go on record here and say that this is one of the best smoked chicken breast recipes that you'll ever make. The Traeger perfectly cooks the chicken to keep it moist and tender, leaving the middle full of perfectly stuffed goodness. 

Smoked Pulled Chicken

​Using boneless chicken breasts for this recipe makes it a breeze. You can easily make a big batch in the Traeger smoker and have it to eat throughout the week. You can also use this recipe for a family gathering and to easily feed a crowd. 

Smoked Chicken Soup

I told you that you can use leftovers from your chicken breast recipe to make fun and yummy soups like this! Add your favorite veggies and a few spices like garlic powder and onion powder, and you're well on your way to creating a delicious, hearty homemade soup. 

Traeger Beer Can Chicken

​This is the best way to cook a whole chicken recipe. Grab your favorite type of beer and get started. 

Smoked Chicken Breast

It's all about the cook time when it comes to using a smoker. The one thing that you have to remember when you're slow cooking chicken is that you always want to verify the internal temperature of the chicken before serving it. 

Using the temperature probe of the smoker, make sure that you're checking the temperature of the thickest part of the breast. You need to be sure that you're getting an accurate reading so that you know the chicken is cooked. As long as the internal temperature shows 165 degrees, the chicken is fully cooked and ready to start the resting process. 

How to Smoke Chicken Thighs

The great thing about smoking chicken thighs is that you can use different types of dry rubs or even a simple marinade to add a savory flavor. Or, if you want to cover it with BBQ sauce after you let the chicken rest, go for it. 

Smoked Chicken Legs

Pair this simple recipe with a simple side of potato salad, and you've got quite the meal. Once you take the time to slow cook the chicken on the grill, serve it and keep it simple! 

Smoked Whole Chicken

Cooking a whole chicken on the Traeger is really quite simple. It's all about making sure that you use a good dry rub. And then timing it with the doneness of the internal temperature. 

You can then cut and serve the chicken and eat it like it is or use it for leftovers in soups, chicken tacos, and more. 

Common Questions

What seasoning should I use on smoked chicken?

The biggest thing to remember when you're trying to pick a seasoning blend is to choose flavors you enjoy. Making your own Traeger chicken rub is really versatile and easy to do. You can use all types of ingredients and spices, from chili powder to brown sugar, depending on what flavor you're going for. 

Rubbing a little bit of olive oil on the outside of the chicken is what will help to crisp it up. And if you're going for simple flavors, all that you really need is a little bit of kosher salt and black pepper as a coating. 

What is the ideal temperature for smoking chicken on a Traeger?

The recommended temperature for smoking chicken on a Traeger is around 225°F to 250°F (107°C to 121°C). This low and slow cooking method ensures tender and moist chicken.

How long does it take to smoke a whole chicken on a Traeger?

It takes about 2-3 hours to smoke a whole chicken on a Traeger smoker. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size of the bird and the temperature you are using.

Do I need to brine my chicken before smoking it?

Brining your chicken before smoking is not necessary but highly recommended as it helps keep the meat moist and enhances its flavor. You can use various brine recipes or pre-made brine mixes available in stores.

Can I use wood pellets other than hickory or mesquite for smoking chicken?

Absolutely! While hickory and mesquite are popular choices, you can experiment with different wood pellets like apple, cherry, pecan, or even maple to add unique flavors to your smoked chicken.

Should I leave the skin on when smoking chicken?

It's generally recommended to leave the skin on while smoking chicken as it helps retain moisture and adds extra flavor. However, if you prefer crispy skin, you can finish the chicken at a high temperature on a grill or under the broil. You can also remove it towards the end of cooking and finish it separately.

When is smoked chicken done?

Use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). We generally shoot for 160 and then let the chicken rest to come up to the correct temperature.

What types of chicken can I use the Traeger smoker for?

Anything really. Traeger smokers can smoke various chicken cuts like wings, thighs, drumsticks, or even boneless breasts. Each cut may require different cooking times and temperatures, so be sure to adjust accordingly.