How to Make Perfectly Smoked Traeger Chicken Quarters

Summary

The recipe for smoked chicken leg and thigh quarters by Traeger Kitchen features a flavorful preparation using Traeger's Pork & Poultry Rub. The chicken is first marinated with olive oil and the rub, then smoked at a low temperature for an hour to infuse it with a rich, smoky flavor. Following the smoking, the temperature is increased to roast the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The process results in juicy, tender chicken with a delicious crust of sweet and savory spices.

Ingredients

• 8 chicken legs (thigh and drumstick)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub (to taste)

Instructions

1. Preparation:

   • Place chicken pieces in a large mixing bowl.
   • Coat each piece with olive oil and season with Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub.
   • Massage to ensure oil and seasonings penetrate the skin.
   • Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.

2. Smoking:

   • Preheat Traeger grill to 180℉ with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
   • Remove chicken from the refrigerator, letting excess oil drip back into the bowl.
   • Arrange chicken on the grill grate and smoke for 1 hour.

3. Roasting:

   • Increase Traeger temperature to 350℉.
   • Roast the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165℉, which should take about 50 to 60 minutes.

4. Serving:

   • Remove chicken from the grill.
   • Let it rest for 8 to 10 minutes before serving.

Perfectly Smoked Chicken Leg & Thigh Quarters

Smoked chicken leg and thigh quarters are a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of smoky barbecue with tender, juicy chicken. This recipe elevates the humble chicken pieces to a gourmet level with a blend of sweet and savory spices, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a cozy family dinner, this smoked chicken recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients and Preparation

The key to this recipe is the marinade and seasoning. You’ll need:

• 8 chicken legs (with thighs attached)
• 3 tablespoons of high-quality olive oil
• Traeger Pork & Poultry Rub (adjusted to your taste)

Start by placing the chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken and generously season with the Pork & Poultry Rub. Massage the mixture thoroughly into the chicken, ensuring the seasoning gets under the skin for maximum flavor absorption. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and penetrate the meat.

Smoking Process

The smoking process is where the magic happens. Preheat your Traeger grill to 180℉ and close the lid for about 15 minutes to ensure it's at the right temperature. Once preheated, place the marinated chicken pieces on the grill grate. Smoke the chicken for 1 hour at this low temperature, which infuses the meat with a deep, smoky flavor.

Roasting to Perfection

After smoking, increase the grill temperature to 350℉. Continue to cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165℉ in the thickest part of the thigh. This step usually takes about 50 to 60 minutes. The higher temperature will crisp up the skin and create a beautiful golden-brown crust while keeping the meat juicy and tender inside.

Serving and Enjoyment

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 8 to 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Serve the smoked chicken leg and thigh quarters with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Conclusion

This smoked chicken leg and thigh quarters recipe is a testament to the power of simple ingredients and careful cooking techniques. The combination of a flavorful rub, the slow smoking process, and the final roasting results in a dish that's bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe on your Traeger grill, and enjoy a meal that brings the essence of gourmet barbecue to your table.