Smoked Chicken Thighs – The Best Juicy Recipe (2025)

Q: How long do you smoke chicken thighs at 225?

I smoke chicken thighs at 225°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours , depending on their size. The key is internal temperature—not time. I pull my smoked chicken thighs when they hit 180–185°F for that perfect tenderness.

Q: What temp is best for chicken thighs on a pellet grill?

If I’m using a pellet grill, 250°F is my sweet spot. It cooks the thighs evenly, crisps the skin better than 225°F, and still gives solid smoke flavor. I’ve found that smoked chicken thighs at 250°F strike the perfect balance between texture and time.

Q: Is it better to smoke a chicken at 225 or 250?

Both work—but it depends on your goal. I go with 225°F when I want deeper smoke flavor and juicy meat. I switch to 250°F when I want a crisper finish and a faster cook. For thighs specifically, 250°F usually wins.

Q: How long do you smoke chicken thighs?

I usually smoke chicken thighs at 225°F for 1.5 to 2 hours . Thinner pieces finish faster. For perfect smoked chicken thighs , aim for an internal temp of 180–185°F . That’s when they turn juicy and tender without drying out.

Question 1

How long do you smoke chicken thighs at 225?

Accepted Answer

I smoke chicken thighs at 225°F for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their size. The key is internal temperature—not time. I pull my smoked chicken thighs when they hit 180–185°F for that perfect tenderness.

Question 2

Should I spray chicken thighs on a smoker?

Accepted Answer

Yes, absolutely. Spraying helps keep the meat moist and enhances smoke adhesion. I use a mix of apple juice and apple cider vinegar every 30–45 minutes. This small step keeps your smoked chicken thighs juicy without washing off the seasoning.

Question 3

What temp is best for chicken thighs on a pellet grill?

Accepted Answer

If I’m using a pellet grill, 250°F is my sweet spot. It cooks the thighs evenly, crisps the skin better than 225°F, and still gives solid smoke flavor. I’ve found that smoked chicken thighs at 250°F strike the perfect balance between texture and time.

Question 4

Is it better to smoke a chicken at 225 or 250?

Accepted Answer

Both work—but it depends on your goal. I go with 225°F when I want deeper smoke flavor and juicy meat. I switch to 250°F when I want a crisper finish and a faster cook. For thighs specifically, 250°F usually wins.

Question 5

How long do you smoke chicken thighs?

Accepted Answer

I usually smoke chicken thighs at 225°F for 1.5 to 2 hours. Thinner pieces finish faster. For perfect smoked chicken thighs, aim for an internal temp of 180–185°F. That’s when they turn juicy and tender without drying out.

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition