If you’re a fan of juicy, flavorful chicken, then cooking chicken thighs on the Traeger grill is a must-try. The Traeger grill offers a perfect balance of smoke and heat, giving your chicken thighs a deliciously smoky flavor with a tender and juicy texture. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this simple guide will help you cook the most mouthwatering chicken thighs on your Traeger grill.

Preparation:

Before you start grilling, it’s important to prepare your chicken thighs properly. Begin by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water, then pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning adhere better to the chicken and ensure even cooking. Next, season your chicken thighs with your favorite rub or a mixture of salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices. Let the chicken thighs sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Cooking steps:

  1. Start by preheating your Traeger grill to 400°F (200°C). This high heat will help sear the chicken thighs and lock in the juices.
  2. Once the grill is preheated, place the chicken thighs directly on the grill grates, skin side down. Close the lid and let them cook for about 5 minutes.
  3. After 5 minutes, flip the chicken thighs using tongs and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). To ensure accuracy, use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
  4. During the last few minutes of cooking, you can brush the chicken thighs with your favorite barbecue sauce or glaze for extra flavor. Be sure to flip them once more to evenly coat both sides.
  5. Once the chicken thighs reach the desired temperature and the skin is crispy and browned, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tip: For an extra smoky flavor, you can add wood pellets such as hickory or cherry to the Traeger grill during the cooking process. Just follow your Traeger grill’s instructions for adding wood pellets.

So, grab your Traeger grill, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy the most deliciously juicy chicken thighs you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re serving them as the main course or using them in a recipe, these Traeger-grilled chicken thighs are sure to be a hit!

Preparing Chicken Thighs for the Traeger

Before you start cooking chicken thighs on your Traeger grill, you first need to make sure the meat is prepared properly. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Thaw the chicken thighs if they are frozen. Place them in the refrigerator and allow them to thaw overnight.
  2. Once thawed, remove the chicken thighs from the packaging and pat them dry with paper towels. This will help ensure the skin gets crispy when cooked.
  3. Now it’s time to season the chicken thighs. You can use your favorite rub or a simple mixture of salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. Make sure to season all sides of the thighs evenly.
  4. Let the seasoned chicken thighs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat while you prepare your Traeger grill.

By following these steps and properly preparing your chicken thighs for the Traeger grill, you will ensure juicy and delicious results every time you cook them.

Cleaning and Seasoning the Chicken Thighs

Before cooking the chicken thighs on the Traeger, it’s important to properly clean and season them to enhance their flavor and ensure they are cooked to perfection. Here are the steps to clean and season the chicken thighs:

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Cleaning:

Start by rinsing the chicken thighs under cold water to remove any excess blood or fluids. Pat them dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Place the chicken thighs on a clean cutting board.

Seasoning:

Next, season the chicken thighs with your choice of spices and herbs. Create a flavorful rub by mixing together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and any other herbs or spices you prefer. For added flavor, you can also marinate the chicken thighs in a mixture of olive oil, vinegar, and your choice of seasonings for a few hours or overnight.

Once the chicken thighs have been seasoned, let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Pro tip: If you prefer a more hands-off approach, you can also use pre-made seasoning blends or marinades available at your local grocery store.

Once the chicken thighs are properly cleaned and seasoned, they are ready to be cooked on the Traeger. Preheat the Traeger to the desired temperature and follow the cooking instructions for juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken thighs!

Preheating the Traeger Grill

Before you begin cooking your chicken thighs on the Traeger grill, it’s important to preheat the grill. Preheating helps to ensure that the grill is at the right temperature for cooking and helps to sear the chicken thighs properly.

Here is how you can preheat your Traeger grill:

  1. Make sure the hopper is filled with the desired flavor of wood pellets.
  2. Turn on your Traeger grill by flipping the switch to the “on” position.
  3. Set the temperature to the desired level using the temperature control dial.
  4. Close the lid of the grill and allow it to preheat for 10-15 minutes.

During the preheating process, the grill will heat up and the wood pellets will start to produce smoke. This smoke adds flavor to the chicken thighs as they cook.

Once the grill has preheated, you can start preparing your chicken thighs for cooking. Make sure to follow the recipe or cooking instructions for seasoning and marinating the chicken thighs before placing them on the grill.

Setting Up the Traeger Grill for Indirect Cooking

Before you start cooking chicken thighs on your Traeger grill, you need to set it up for indirect cooking. This method allows the heat to circulate around the food, ensuring even cooking and preventing the meat from drying out.

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

First, preheat your Traeger grill to the desired temperature. For cooking chicken thighs, a temperature of 275°F (135°C) to 300°F (150°C) is recommended. This low and slow cooking method will help the chicken thighs to remain juicy and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Grill

Next, prepare your grill for indirect cooking by placing a heat deflector or a drip tray on the grill grates. This will create a barrier between the heat source and the chicken thighs, allowing them to cook indirectly. Make sure the heat deflector or drip tray is positioned towards the center of the grill.

Step 3: Add Flavored Wood Pellets

To enhance the flavor of your chicken thighs, add your choice of flavored wood pellets to the Traeger grill. Popular options include hickory, mesquite, or applewood. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to add the pellets to your specific Traeger model.

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Step 4: Place the Chicken Thighs on the Grill

Once the grill is preheated and set up for indirect cooking, place the seasoned chicken thighs directly on the grill grates, making sure they are not directly over the heat source. The heat deflector or drip tray should be protecting them from direct contact with the flames or heat source.

Note:

It is important to use an instant-read thermometer to regularly monitor the internal temperature of the chicken thighs while cooking. They are safe to consume when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

With your Traeger grill set up for indirect cooking, you are ready to cook delicious and juicy chicken thighs. Follow the cooking time and temperature recommendations for your specific recipe, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors that your Traeger grill brings to your meals.

Cooking the Chicken Thighs on the Traeger

When it comes to cooking chicken thighs on the Traeger, there are a few key steps to follow for delicious and tender results.

1. Preheat the Traeger: Before you start cooking, preheat your Traeger to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the grill is hot enough to cook the chicken thighs evenly.

2. Season the Chicken Thighs: While the Traeger is preheating, season the chicken thighs with your favorite spices. You can use a pre-made rub or create your own, adding flavors like garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure to season both sides of the thighs.

3. Grill the Chicken Thighs: Once the Traeger is preheated and the chicken thighs are seasoned, place them directly on the grates. Close the lid and let them cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

4. Rest and Serve: Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the Traeger and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to become even more tender. Serve the chicken thighs hot, and enjoy!

Using a Traeger to cook chicken thighs is a great way to infuse them with smoky flavor and achieve a perfectly juicy texture. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal.

Monitoring the Temperature and Cooking Time

When cooking chicken thighs on the Traeger, it is important to monitor the internal temperature to ensure that they are cooked thoroughly and to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature of the thickest part of the chicken thigh, avoiding contact with the bone.

For moist and tender chicken thighs, cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures that the chicken is safe to eat and eliminates any risk of salmonella or other foodborne illnesses.

Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on factors such as the size and thickness of the chicken thighs, as well as the temperature of your Traeger grill. It is always best to rely on the internal temperature rather than cooking time alone.

During the cooking process, it is recommended to flip the chicken thighs halfway through to ensure even cooking and browning. This will help to enhance the flavor and texture of the meat.

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Resting and Serving

Once the chicken thighs reach the desired internal temperature, remove them from the Traeger grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful final product.

Serve the chicken thighs hot and enjoy them on their own or as part of a delicious meal. They pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Experiment with different seasoning blends, marinades, or sauces to add your own twist to the chicken thighs. Whether you prefer a smoky barbecue flavor or a zesty lemon and herb combination, the Traeger grill provides endless opportunities to customize your chicken thighs to your liking.

Q&A

What temperature should I cook chicken thighs on the traeger?

To cook chicken thighs on the Traeger, it is recommended to preheat the grill to 350°F (175°C) and cook the chicken thighs at this temperature. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

How long does it take to cook chicken thighs on the traeger?

The cooking time for chicken thighs on the Traeger can vary depending on their size and thickness. On average, it takes about 25-30 minutes to cook chicken thighs at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). However, it is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and ensure the thighs are fully cooked.

Should I marinate the chicken thighs before cooking them on the traeger?

Marinating the chicken thighs before cooking them on the Traeger can add more flavor and tenderness to the meat. You can marinate the chicken thighs for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in a mixture of your choice, such as a combination of oil, vinegar, herbs, spices, and citrus juice. This will help infuse the flavors and make the chicken thighs more delicious.

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs on the traeger?

Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs can be cooked on the Traeger and can actually enhance the flavor and juiciness of the meat. The bone helps retain moisture and adds more flavor to the chicken thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as bone-in chicken thighs may require a few minutes longer to cook compared to boneless thighs.

What other seasonings can I use on the chicken thighs when cooking them on the traeger?

When cooking chicken thighs on the Traeger, you can use a variety of seasonings to enhance the flavor. Some popular options include a simple salt and pepper seasoning, a BBQ rub, a Cajun or jerk seasoning, or a combination of herbs and spices like garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite flavor profiles!

What is the best way to cook chicken thighs on the Traeger?

The best way to cook chicken thighs on the Traeger is to first marinate them in your favorite marinade, then preheat your Traeger to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the chicken thighs on the grill grates and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, flipping them halfway through. This will give you juicy and flavorful chicken thighs with a delicious smoky flavor.