This Juicy Traeger BBQ Chicken is a mouth-watering delight! Cooked on a Traeger grill, it gets a smoky flavor that makes each bite irresistible. Perfectly marinated and grilled, it’s simply delicious!
I love serving this chicken at cookouts – it’s always a hit! Just pair it with some corn on the cob, and you’ve got a summer feast everyone will enjoy! 🐔🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for their rich flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, chicken leg quarters work well too. You can use skinless pieces if you want to cut down on fat, but they might end up a bit drier.
BBQ Rub: I recommend Traeger BBQ rub for that authentic flavor. If you can’t find it, any BBQ seasoning will do – just check for a mix that includes smoky flavors. You can even make your own by combining brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce—smoky or sweet works best! For a healthier option, use a sugar-free BBQ sauce. I often prefer the homemade variety since it gives more control over sweetness and ingredients.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity to balance the sweetness. If you’re out, lemon juice or white vinegar can be used as a substitute. I enjoy adding a bit more honey if I use lemon juice to maintain sweetness!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Grilled Chicken on a Traeger?
The key to juicy chicken is maintaining a good temperature and giving it time to absorb the smoky flavors. Here’s how to do it simply:
- Preheat your grill to 375°F (190°C). Make sure it’s set for direct grilling for an even cook.
- Use a good quality BBQ rub to enhance the chicken’s natural flavors. Don’t skip this step!
- Start grilling skin side down to render some fat and develop crispiness. Cover the grill to keep the smoke inside!
- Apply the BBQ glaze during the last part of cooking. This helps create a sticky, delicious layer.
- Check for doneness with a meat thermometer. Remember, 165°F (74°C) is the magic number!
Letting the chicken rest after grilling is crucial—it helps the juices redistribute. Trust me; it makes a big difference!
Juicy Traeger BBQ Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or chicken leg quarters)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup Traeger BBQ rub (or your favorite BBQ seasoning)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite, preferably smoky or sweet)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Juicy Traeger BBQ Chicken recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time, plus 40-45 minutes on the grill. You’ll spend a bit of time assembling the flavors and then let your Traeger do its magic, resulting in tender and flavorful chicken that’s a crowd-pleaser!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger Grill:
Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C) and set it for direct grilling with wood pellet smoke. This temperature is perfect for achieving juicy chicken with a nice, crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, Traeger BBQ rub, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture generously all over your chicken thighs. Make sure every inch is coated; this will add lots of taste!
3. Start Grilling:
Place the chicken thighs on the grill grate, skin side down. Close the lid and let them smoke for about 25-30 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing that delicious smoky flavor, plus it starts cooking the chicken through.
4. Make the BBQ Glaze:
While the chicken is smoking, grab a separate bowl and mix the BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey to create a tasty glaze. This combination will enhance the flavor and give the chicken a glossy, sticky finish.
5. Flip and Glaze the Chicken:
After about 30 minutes, it’s time to flip the chicken. Brush a thick layer of the BBQ glaze over the chicken on the grill. The flavors will start to caramelize beautifully as it cooks!
6. Finish Grilling:
Continue grilling for another 10-15 minutes. As the chicken cooks, flip and baste it with the glaze every 5 minutes. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken that’s sticky and caramelized.
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, making your chicken extra tender and flavorful.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your smoky, juicy Traeger BBQ chicken with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite and savor that smoky flavor! Perfect for family dinners and BBQ gatherings!
FAQ – Juicy Traeger BBQ Chicken Recipe
Can I Use Other Cuts of Chicken?
Absolutely! While bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs yield the best flavor and juiciness, you can also use chicken leg quarters, drumsticks, or even bone-in breasts. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the cut you choose, aiming for that 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight will enhance the flavor significantly! Simply rub the chicken with the olive oil and seasonings, then cover and refrigerate it. This allows the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors before you grill it.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven. You can also use it in salads or sandwiches for a delicious lunch!
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you’re out of BBQ sauce, you can make a quick substitute using ketchup, honey, and a splash of apple cider vinegar for sweetness and tanginess. Alternatively, a mix of mustard and honey can work for a different flavor profile! Just be sure to adjust the sweetness to your taste.
