Smoked Chicken Thighs (Smoker-Ready in Minutes!)

There’s a misconception that plant-based eating means sacrificing flavor and texture. Well, it’s time to debunk that myth. These vegan smoked “chicken” thighs are proof that incredible taste and satisfaction can come from completely plant-based ingredients. 

Imagine the smoky, fall-off-the-bone tenderness of your favorite barbecue, but without the meat (air it with a glass of A Spicy Margarita for a bold and refreshing twist ). Yes, it’s possible! 

These beauties are made with jackfruit, a tropical fruit with a meaty texture that takes on flavors like a champ. Plus, the marinade is packed with smoky paprika, chipotle chilies in adobo sauce (don’t worry, they’re not too spicy!), and a touch of liquid smoke to create that authentic barbecue taste.

The Magic of Smoking Chicken Thighs (Plant-Based Style)

When it comes to grilling and smoking, most people think of traditional meats like chicken thighs. But let’s shake things up! This smoked chicken thighs recipe featuring jackfruit is a game-changer. The beauty of jackfruit lies in its versatility; it can absorb flavors and textures that rival any barbecue classic.

If you’ve ever wondered how long to smoke chicken thighs, the timing remains relatively consistent across different ingredients. For jackfruit, smoking it for 1-1.5 hours gives it that tender, smoky goodness reminiscent of traditional BBQ. So whether you're hosting a backyard bash or just craving a tasty meal, these traeger chicken thighs are sure to impress everyone at the table. 

chicken thighs on the smoker

Smoked Chicken Thighs Recipe

For 4 Servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1.5 hours

Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1 (20 oz) can green jackfruit, packed in water, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp chipotle chilies in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp liquid smoke (optional, for extra smoky flavor)

Steps:

  1. Shred the jackfruit: Using your hands or two forks, shred the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces, mimicking the texture of pulled chicken.
  2. Marinate the magic: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotle chilies, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke (if using). Add the shredded jackfruit and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Get smokin’: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Transfer the jackfruit and marinade to a smoker-safe pan or wrap them in foil packets. Smoke for 1-1.5 hours, or until the jackfruit is tender and starting to char slightly. 

Serve it up!: After smoking chicken thighs​, use tongs or forks to pull the jackfruit into even smaller shreds. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce, piled high on buns, or toss in a salad for a smoky, plant-powered treat!chicken thighs in smoker

Notes:

  • For a sweeter BBQ flavor, add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce to the marinade.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 600mg (approximately, depending on soy sauce used)
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Tips for Perfectly Smoking Chicken Thighs (or Jackfruit!)

When it comes to smoking chicken thighs (or our plant-based jackfruit alternative), a few key tips can elevate your dish from good to mouthwateringly great. Here’s how to ensure you achieve that perfect smoky flavor and texture:

  1. Preheat Your Smoker:
    Always preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) before adding your jackfruit or chicken. This ensures even cooking and prevents the food from absorbing too much smoke, which can lead to bitterness.
  2. Monitor the Smoke Level:
    You want a steady stream of thin blue smoke, not thick white smoke. Too much smoke can overpower the dish. If you notice the smoke getting too heavy, adjust the airflow in your smoker.
  3. Marinate Longer:
    For maximum flavor, let the jackfruit marinate for at least 30 minutes, but ideally overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate the jackfruit, enhancing its taste.

#vegan #smokerrecipe #jackfruit #plantbasedbbq #chrisstalkesofakitchen

Over at my Tales of a Kitchen, you’ll find tons of delicious vegan recipes, from quick and easy weeknight meals like Smoked Chicken Thighs to show-stopping desserts. Come explore the world of plant-based cooking with me!

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Smoked Chicken Thighs (Smoker-Ready in Minutes!)

Smoked Chicken Thighs (Smoker-Ready in Minutes!)

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  • Author: TalesOfaKitchen
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1.5 hours
  • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dishes

Description

Savor the smoky magic of smoked chicken thighs! Tender jackfruit transformed into a barbecue sensation, that’s TalesOfAKitchen's all-time-successful recipe.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (20 oz) can green jackfruit, packed in water, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp chipotle chilies in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp liquid smoke (optional, for extra smoky flavor)

Instructions

  1. Shred the jackfruit: Using your hands or two forks, shred the jackfruit into bite-sized pieces, mimicking the texture of pulled chicken.
  2. Marinate the magic: In a large bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, chipotle chilies, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and liquid smoke (if using). Add the shredded jackfruit and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for maximum flavor.
  3. Get smokin’: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Transfer the jackfruit and marinade to a smoker-safe pan or wrap them in foil packets. Smoke for 1-1.5 hours, or until the jackfruit is tender and starting to char slightly. 
  4. Serve it up!: After smoking chicken thighs​, use tongs or forks to pull the jackfruit into even smaller shreds. Serve with your favorite BBQ sauce, piled high on buns, or toss in a salad for a smoky, plant-powered treat!

Notes

  • For a sweeter BBQ flavor, add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce to the marinade.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 600mg (approximately, depending on soy sauce used)
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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