Spicy Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean chile powder)
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 (8 ounce) bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• oak wood chunks, for smoking

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, chili powder, gochugaru, salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix well to create the perfect spice blend.
2. Thoroughly pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Generously and evenly sprinkle the prepared seasoning mixture over all surfaces. Place the seasoned thighs on a large plate or baking sheet.
3. Fully open the bottom vent of your grill. Ignite a charcoal chimney starter filled with briquettes. Once the briquettes are covered with gray ash, carefully pour them onto the bottom grate of the grill, pushing them to one side. Add 3 to 5 oak wood chunks on top of the hot coals. Coat the top grate with oil and place it on the grill. Maintain a consistent internal temperature of 225 degrees F (107 degrees C) for 15 to 20 minutes.
4. Position the chicken thighs, skin-side up, on the oiled grate of the preheated grill, away from the direct heat of the coals. Cover the grill and smoke the chicken until it achieves a deep mahogany color. Use a thermometer to ensure the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C), which should take approximately 2 hours. Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the grill and transfer them to a large platter.
5. Allow the smoked chicken thighs to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more flavorful and tender meat.

Nutrition

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat Content: 25 g
• Fiber Content: 2 g
• Sugar Content: 1 g
• Sodium Content: 1610 mg
• Protein Content: 39 g
• Cholesterol Content: 142 mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 4 g
• Saturated Fat Content: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat Content: 0 g