How to Make Delicious Smoked BBQ Chicken

Smoked BBQ chicken is a classic dish that combines juicy, flavorful chicken with the smoky goodness of outdoor cooking. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving some smoky comfort food, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.

Smoking chicken not only enhances its flavor but also keeps it tender and moist. With the right ingredients and techniques, you'll be serving up the best BBQ chicken your friends and family have ever tasted!

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons BBQ rub or seasoning of choice
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• Wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry for smoking)

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Rinse and pat dry the chicken pieces.
2. Rub olive oil all over the chicken to help the seasoning stick.
3. Generously sprinkle the BBQ rub on all sides of the chicken.

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Step 2: Set Up Your Smoker

1. Preheat your smoker to 250°F (120°C).
2. Add wood chips to your smoker to infuse the chicken with a smoky flavor. Hickory is great for a bold taste, while applewood adds a sweet, subtle flavor.

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Step 3: Smoking the Chicken

1. Place the chicken pieces on the smoker grate, skin side up.
2. Close the lid and smoke for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

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Step 4: Adding BBQ Sauce

1. About 30 minutes before the chicken is fully cooked, brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce over each piece.
2. Allow the sauce to caramelize slightly while the chicken finishes cooking.

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Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes.
2. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and your favorite sides like coleslaw or cornbread.

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Tips for Perfect Smoked BBQ Chicken

• Brine your chicken for a few hours before cooking to enhance flavor and juiciness.
• Avoid opening the smoker too often to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Use a mix of wood chips for a complex smoky flavor.

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Conclusion

Smoked BBQ chicken is a show-stopping dish that’s easier to make than you might think. With a smoker, the right seasoning, and some patience, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s packed with smoky, savory goodness. Try it for your next barbecue and watch it become the star of the show!