How To Smoke Chicken Legs And Chicken Thighs In An Electric Smoker

Smoking Chicken Legs and Thighs in an Electric Smoker

Smoking chicken legs and thighs in an electric smoker is a delicious way to enjoy tender and flavorful chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly smoked chicken every time.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start smoking, it’s important to prepare the chicken. Here’s what you’ll need to do:

• Start by rinsing the chicken legs and thighs under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels.
• Season the chicken with your favorite dry rub or marinade. This is where you can get creative and add your favorite flavors.
• Cover the seasoned chicken and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Setting Up the Electric Smoker

Now that the chicken is prepped, it’s time to set up the electric smoker:

1. Fill the smoker’s wood chip tray with your choice of wood chips. Hickory and applewood are popular options for smoking chicken.
2. Preheat the electric smoker to 225°F (107°C) while the wood chips start to smoke.
3. Place a water pan in the smoker to help maintain moisture during the smoking process.

Smoking the Chicken

Once the smoker is ready, it’s time to start smoking the chicken:

1. Place the seasoned chicken legs and thighs on the smoker racks, leaving space between each piece for the smoke to circulate.
2. Close the smoker and let the chicken smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Check the wood chips and water levels periodically to ensure a steady supply of smoke and moisture.

Finishing Touches

When the chicken reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.

Now that you know how to smoke chicken legs and thighs in an electric smoker, it’s time to fire up your smoker and enjoy the mouthwatering results. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving some delicious smoked chicken, this method is sure to impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the rich, smoky flavors of perfectly smoked chicken legs and thighs!