How Long To Cook Chicken Thighs On A Traeger

How Long to Cook Chicken Thighs on a Traeger

Chicken thighs are a versatile and delicious cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the best ways to cook chicken thighs is on a Traeger grill. Traegers use indirect heat to cook food slowly and evenly, resulting in juicy and flavorful meat.

The cooking time for chicken thighs on a Traeger will vary depending on the thickness of the thighs and the desired level of doneness. However, as a general rule, you can expect to cook chicken thighs on a Traeger for about 45 minutes to 1 hour per pound.

How to Cook Chicken Thighs on a Traeger

Prepare the Chicken Thighs

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs. Then, season the chicken thighs with your favorite rub or marinade. You can use a simple salt and pepper rub, or you can get more creative with your seasonings.

Preheat the Traeger

Preheat your Traeger grill to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the grill is preheated, place the chicken thighs on the grill grate.

Cook the Chicken Thighs

Cook the chicken thighs for about 45 minutes to 1 hour per pound, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rest the Chicken Thighs

Once the chicken thighs are cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Thighs on a Traeger

Here are a few tips for cooking chicken thighs on a Traeger:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken thighs are cooked to the proper internal temperature.
• Don’t overcrowd the grill. If you are cooking a lot of chicken thighs, cook them in batches.
• If you want the chicken thighs to have a crispy skin, cook them on the grill for the last 10-15 minutes at a higher temperature, such as 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Serve the chicken thighs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a salad.

Expert Advice for Cooking Chicken Thighs on a Traeger

In addition to the tips above, here is some expert advice for cooking chicken thighs on a Traeger:

• “Use a dry rub to season the chicken thighs. This will help the chicken thighs to develop a flavorful crust.” – Steven Raichlen, author of The Barbecue Bible
• “Don’t be afraid to experiment with different wood chips or pellets in your Traeger. This will impart different flavors to the chicken thighs.” – Jeff Phillips, founder of Traeger Grills
• “Let the chicken thighs rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute, resulting in juicier and more flavorful meat.” – Susie Bulloch, author of Traeger Grills: The Cookbook

FAQs about Cooking Chicken Thighs on a Traeger

Here are some frequently asked questions about cooking chicken thighs on a Traeger:

1. What is the best way to season chicken thighs for a Traeger?

You can season chicken thighs with a variety of rubs or marinades. A simple salt and pepper rub is always a good option, or you can get more creative with your seasonings. Some popular seasonings for chicken thighs include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder.

2. How long should I cook chicken thighs on a Traeger at 225 degrees Fahrenheit?

You should cook chicken thighs on a Traeger at 225 degrees Fahrenheit for about 45 minutes to 1 hour per pound, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. How can I tell if chicken thighs are done cooking?

The best way to tell if chicken thighs are done cooking is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh and make sure that the internal temperature has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

4. What are some good sides to serve with chicken thighs?

There are many delicious sides that you can serve with chicken thighs. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and salads.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken thighs on a Traeger is a great way to enjoy juicy and flavorful meat. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can cook perfect chicken thighs every time.

Are you interested in learning more about cooking chicken thighs on a Traeger? If so, please leave a comment below and I will be happy to answer your questions.