Description
Juicy smoked chicken thighs coated in a zesty lemon pepper rub, kissed with smoky flavor and finished with fresh herbs. Perfect for backyard gatherings or a weeknight treat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds chicken thighs or drumsticks, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Zest from 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 250°F using applewood or hickory chips.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and smoked paprika.
- Coat the chicken pieces evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Place the chicken skin-side up on the smoker grates, spaced apart.
- Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Optional: Sear on a hot grill or under broiler for a crispy finish.
- Rest for 5 to 10 minutes, then garnish with parsley and fresh lemon juice.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning for best crust.
- Use a thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Try spatchcocking a whole chicken for even cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Smoked chicken, lemon pepper chicken, backyard barbecue, summer recipe, smoked meat