If you’re looking for a simple yet mouthwatering way to prepare boneless chicken breasts, you’ve found it! I love cooking on my pellet grill. So here is my best pellet grill chicken breast recipe.
But don’t worry if you prefer thighs or bone-in! I cover both options below the main recipe.
This Traeger pellet grill smoked chicken breast recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also guarantees juicy and flavorful chicken every time. But don’t worry if you don’t like or own Traeger grills. It works just as well with Pit Boss, Z Grills, or any other brand of pellet smoker.
With just a few ingredients like olive oil, garlic powder, and your favorite seasoning blend, you can create an unforgettable main dish that will impress your family and friends.
Cooking chicken on a pellet grill at lower temperatures allows the meat to absorb that fantastic smoke flavor while staying tender and juicy.
Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a backyard BBQ, this recipe is a great option. Plus, it’s one of my favorite ways to enjoy chicken breasts! You’ll find that using an instant-read thermometer ensures the perfect internal temperature of 165°F, which is key to juicy chicken without any dry spots.
Creating the Perfect Smoked Chicken Breast
Smoked chicken breast is a delightful addition to any backyard BBQ. Using boneless skinless chicken breasts and a Traeger pellet grill opens up a world of flavor while ensuring a tender and juicy outcome. The key to this recipe lies in the preparation and smoking process.
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, seasoning salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. This dry rub creates a flavor-packed exterior that perfectly complements the natural taste of the chicken.
Preheating the grill to 225°F allows the meat to be infused with that irresistible smoky flavor. Cooking at this lower temperature ensures that the chicken rests in its juices, leading to a succulent main dish ideal for any meal prep or outdoor gathering.
Essential Ingredients for Flavor
Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the perfect chicken breast. The combination of olive oil and the dry rub creates a flavorful crust as the chicken cooks. It’s the simplest ways to ensure each bite is packed with taste.
Also, having your favorite BBQ sauce on hand, such as Kansas City BBQ sauce, adds a final touch of sweetness and tang when serving. This versatile pairing can just as easily complement chicken tacos or be enjoyed on its own.
Cooking Process Made Simple
Begin by preparing the chicken on a clean cutting board.
Patting it dry and trimming any excess fat helps create a better surface for the dry rub to adhere to. After applying the olive oil, rub the seasoning blend evenly on both sides of the chicken breasts, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Once the Traeger grill is preheated, place the chicken breasts directly on the grill grates. Smoke the chicken for approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, checking with a temperature probe to ensure the internal temperature of the meat reaches 165°F at the thickest part of the breast. This step is vital to avoid overcooking and guarantees juicy chicken each time.
The time varies due to the size of the chicken breast.
The Importance of Resting the Chicken
After the chicken has finished cooking, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period is essential as it helps retain moisture within the chicken, leading to a more enjoyable eating experience. Juicy chicken breasts that have rested properly will be far superior in taste and texture.
Once rested, slice the chicken and serve it alongside your favorite BBQ sauce. The vibrant flavors from the seasoning and the smokiness will shine through, making it a memorable dish for any gathering.
Serving and Enjoying Your Smoked Chicken
Presenting your beautifully plated smoked chicken breast garnished with fresh herbs adds an inviting touch to your meal. Pair it with a selection of vegetables on a rustic wooden table to enhance the atmosphere of your backyard BBQ.
Whether served on its own or as part of a larger spread, this chicken recipe promises to be a hit with family and friends. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways, making it one of the best chicken breast recipes out there.
Tips for a Successful BBQ Experience
To make the most of your backyard BBQ, consider offering various sides that complement the smoky flavors of the chicken. Grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or even a selection of dips can elevate the meal experience.
Don’t forget to keep the atmosphere lively with good music and perhaps even some games. The combination of delicious food and great company is what makes BBQs so special.
With the right preparation and cooking techniques, your smoked chicken breast will not only satisfy taste buds but also create lasting memories. Happy grilling!
Delicious and Flavorful Smoked Chicken Breasts
This smoked chicken breast recipe is packed with flavor thanks to a simple dry rub made of seasoning salt, black pepper, onion powder, and brown sugar.
The cooking process involves using your Traeger grill to maintain a low temperature, allowing the chicken to rest and soak in all those delicious juices for a truly delightful meal. The result? Juicy chicken breasts that are great for tacos, salads, or served on their own with your favorite BBQ sauce.
With a cook time that allows you to relax and enjoy your time outdoors, this recipe is a must-try. Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness at the thickest part of the breast, and you’ll never have to worry about overcooking again!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Your favorite BBQ sauce for serving (such as Kansas City BBQ sauce)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts and patting them dry with paper towels. Place them on a cutting board.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, seasoning salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix well.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts and then rub the seasoning blend evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Preheat the Traeger: Set your Traeger grill to 225°F and allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes.
- Smoke the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill grates and close the lid. Smoke for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F as measured with an instant-read meat thermometer at the thickest part of the breast.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes. This step helps retain moisture. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 7g
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Pellet Grill Chicken Breast Options
Smoked Bone-In Chicken Breasts
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in skin-on chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Your favorite BBQ sauce for serving (such as Kansas City BBQ sauce)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Trim any excess skin or fat from the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them skin-side up on a cutting board.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, seasoning salt, black pepper, and brown sugar.
- Season the Chicken: Rub olive oil all over each chicken breast, including under the skin if possible. Evenly apply the dry rub to all sides of the chicken.
- Preheat the Traeger: Set your Traeger grill to 225°F and allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes with the lid closed.
- Smoke the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on the grill grates, skin-side up. Close the lid and smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the breast, not touching bone.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Smoked Boneless Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon seasoning salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Your favorite BBQ sauce for serving (such as Kansas City BBQ sauce)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. Place them in a large bowl or on a clean surface.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, seasoning salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Mix until well blended.
- Season the Chicken: Drizzle olive oil over the thighs, then rub the seasoning mix evenly onto all sides of each piece.
- Preheat the Traeger: Preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F and allow it to warm up for about 15 minutes with the lid closed.
- Smoke the Chicken: Place the thighs directly on the grill grates. Smoke for 1 to 1.25 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F using an instant-read thermometer.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 to 1.25 hours
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 240kcal
- Fat: 11g
- Protein: 29g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
Final Thoughts
Mastering smoked chicken breasts takes practice and patience. The right technique transforms simple poultry into a delicious meal. Using an instant read thermometer ensures perfect results every time.
Store any leftover chicken breasts in an airtight container. Cover with aluminum foil to keep moisture locked in. These flavorful chicken breasts make incredible sandwiches or salad toppings.
The best way to enjoy smoked chicken is serving it immediately after resting. Allow plenty of time for preparation and cooking. Experiment with different rubs and wood chips to discover your favorite flavor combinations.
Not sure exactly how to set up and use a pellet grill?
I started my pellet grill journey with a Traeger Ironwood 650, and in the ultimate guide to pellet grills on my sister site, I walk you through every step of the way.
Just click that link to read it on my other site.
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