Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these mouthwatering Traeger recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, this collection of smoky delights will guide you through the process of achieving tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken dishes. From classic BBQ-style chicken to spicy wings and savory tacos, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 scrumptious Traeger recipes that feature chicken as the star of the show. Each recipe has been carefully crafted to showcase the rich, smoky flavor that only a Traeger can provide. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So grab your apron, fire up your Traeger, and get ready to indulge in some serious chicken deliciousness!
Traeger Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Butter
Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Butter Recipe
Elevate your chicken game with this mouth-watering Traeger recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked whole chicken with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 lb) whole chicken
– 1/2 cup herb butter (see below)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tbsp paprika
Herb Butter:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tbsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 325°F.
2. Rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Spread herb butter evenly over the top of the chicken.
5. Place chicken in Traeger grill and cook for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger BBQ Chicken Thighs with Honey Glaze
Transform your Traeger into a backyard BBQ haven with this mouthwatering recipe for chicken thighs smothered in a sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs on the Traeger grill mat or directly on the grill grates.
4. Brush the honey glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken thighs.
5. Close the lid and cook for 2 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Traeger Smoked Chicken Wings with Buffalo Sauce
Elevate your game-day snacks with these tender and tangy smoked chicken wings, slathered in a rich buffalo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup wood pellets (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken wings, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the wings on the Traeger grill grate, leaving some space between each wing for even cooking.
5. Smoke the wings for 2 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Remove the wings from the Traeger and toss them in buffalo sauce to coat.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Traeger Beer Can Chicken with Spicy Rub
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouth-watering Traeger recipe that combines the richness of beer can chicken with a bold, spicy rub. Perfect for warm-weather gatherings and outdoor celebrations!
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 1 can of beer
– Spicy Rub (see below)
– Optional: fresh cilantro for garnish
Spicy Rub:
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Mix Spicy Rub ingredients in a small bowl.
4. Generously season the chicken with the rub, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the beer can upright in the cavity of the chicken.
6. Close the Traeger lid and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Traeger Smoked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter
Smoked Chicken Breast with Garlic Butter Recipe
This recipe yields tender and flavorful smoked chicken breasts smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for a weekend dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Traeger grill to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, lemon juice, and smoked paprika.
3. Place the chicken breasts on the Traeger grill and close the lid.
4. Smoke the chicken for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each chicken breast.
6. Remove the chicken from the Traeger and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Lemon Pepper Chicken Leg Quarters
Experience the perfect blend of tangy lemon and spicy pepper with this easy Traeger recipe, elevating your chicken leg quarters to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken leg quarters
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp black pepper
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Place chicken leg quarters in the Traeger basket, skin side up.
4. Brush the lemon-pepper mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Cook for 30 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Remove from heat, let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Traeger Smoked Chicken Tacos with Avocado Crema
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with this mouthwatering combination of smoky chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup Traeger Smoked Chicken Rub
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Crema (recipe below)
– Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chicken rub, brown sugar, and lime juice.
3. Season chicken breasts with the mixture, then place on the Traeger grill grates.
4. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating on the Traeger for 10 minutes.
6. Assemble tacos with smoked chicken, Avocado Crema, and desired toppings.
Avocado Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp lime juice
– Salt to taste
Mash avocados in a bowl until smooth. Mix in sour cream, lime juice, and salt. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (smoking time) + 10 minutes (warming tortillas)
Traeger Spatchcock Chicken with Rosemary and Thyme
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a stress-free Sunday dinner. By spatchcocking the chicken and infusing it with aromatic rosemary and thyme, you’ll be rewarded with tender, juicy meat and a savory aroma that will make everyone’s mouth water.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Spatchcock the chicken by removing the backbone and flattening it out.
4. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme.
5. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill and close the lid.
8. Cook for 45-50 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Traeger Smoked Chicken Drumsticks with BBQ Dry Rub
Elevate your chicken game with this mouthwatering Traeger recipe! These tender and juicy drumsticks are smothered in a rich BBQ dry rub, perfect for snacking or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup BBQ dry rub (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ dry rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the skin from the drumsticks (optional) and toss them in the dry rub mixture until evenly coated.
4. Place the drumsticks on the Traeger grill mat or directly on the grill grates.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Traeger Honey Mustard Smoked Chicken Tenders
Get ready for a sweet and tangy twist on classic chicken tenders! This Traeger recipe smokes chicken to tender perfection, then slathers it in a honey mustard glaze that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and olive oil.
3. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Place chicken on the Traeger grill grates and smoke for 2 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Brush the honey mustard glaze over the chicken during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Traeger Smoked Chicken Fajitas with Peppers and Onions
Elevate your fajita game with this simple recipe that combines the rich flavor of Traeger-smoked chicken with sautéed peppers and onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 fajita-sized flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season chicken with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Smoke chicken for 2 hours or until tender.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and peppers; cook until caramelized.
5. Slice cooked chicken into strips. Add to skillet with peppers and onions. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
7. Assemble fajitas by placing chicken mixture onto tortillas. Serve with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking), 15-20 minutes (sautéing)
Traeger Cajun Smoked Chicken with Creole Seasoning
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this mouthwatering Traeger recipe. This smoky, spicy chicken is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tbsp Creole seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Creole seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill, breast side down.
5. Close the lid and smoke for 2 hours.
6. After 2 hours, brush the chicken with a mixture of brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth.
7. Continue smoking for an additional 30 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Traeger Smoked Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these succulent chicken and pineapple skewers, smothered in a sweet and tangy glaze. Perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 225°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add chicken and pineapple; toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread 2-3 pieces of chicken and pineapple onto each skewer.
5. Place skewers on Traeger grill mat or directly on the grill grates.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Glaze with remaining marinade during last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Smoked Chicken Caesar Salad with Grilled Croutons
Elevate your classic Caesar salad by smoking chicken and adding crispy grilled croutons on a Traeger pellet grill. This twist on a timeless favorite is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 head romaine lettuce
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place chicken breasts in the Traeger basket and brush with the marinade.
4. Smoke chicken for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. Meanwhile, preheat grill grates to high heat. Grill croutons for 2-3 minutes or until crispy.
6. Chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with romaine lettuce, Caesar dressing, and grilled croutons.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (chicken) + 5 minutes (croutons)
Traeger Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese
Smoked Chicken Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe
This recipe combines the tender juiciness of Traeger-smoked chicken with the creamy, spicy flavor of pepper jack cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy flour tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (your favorite variety)
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 8 slices of pepper jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger to 275°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded chicken, pepper jack cheese, and cilantro.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
9. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking), 2-3 minutes per quesadilla (cooking)
Traeger Smoked Chicken Chili with White Beans
This hearty Traeger-smoked chili recipe combines tender chicken with creamy white beans, rich tomatoes, and a hint of smokiness from the Traeger. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a warm-up for your next outdoor adventure.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, brown the chicken breasts over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Add cooked white beans, diced tomatoes, water, and browning juices from the Traeger (use the “Smoking” mode to capture the smoke flavor).
6. Cover pot and let simmer for 2-3 hours or until chicken is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Traeger Smoked Chicken Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Experience the perfect blend of tender chicken, creamy filling, and buttery crust, all infused with the rich flavor of a Traeger smoker. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 tsp paprika
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 275°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables in olive oil until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
3. Mix flour, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Pour mixture over the chicken mixture and stir to combine.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit Traeger’s 14″ x 12″ cooking grates. Place the filling on one half of the crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the crust over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
6. Smoke chicken pot pie at 275°F for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Traeger Smoked Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this Traeger-smoked chicken alfredo recipe, infusing tender chicken and rich sauce with the deep flavors of a smoky fire.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 275°F.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, smoked chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking the chicken) + 10-15 minutes (cooking pasta and preparing sauce)
Traeger Smoked Chicken and Mushroom Risotto
Discover the rich flavors of smoked chicken and sautéed mushrooms infused into a creamy risotto, perfectly cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite smoked spices. Smoke for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add Arborio rice to the skillet, stirring constantly. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Gradually add warmed chicken broth, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
7. Remove from heat once creamy and cooked through. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including smoking time)
Traeger Smoked Chicken Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Get ready to level up your snack game with these mouthwatering Traeger Smoked Chicken Nachos. The combination of tender smoked chicken, crispy tortilla chips, and creamy cheese, all infused with the bold flavor of jalapeños, is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6-8 jalapeño peppers, sliced
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat Traeger to 375°F.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Smoke for 2 hours or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet.
4. Shred smoked chicken into bite-sized pieces. Mix with cheese, cilantro, and jalapeños.
5. Spoon refried beans over tortilla chips. Top with the chicken mixture and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (smoking), 10-12 minutes (baking)
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these mouth-watering Traeger recipes! From classic BBQ to global-inspired flavors, this collection of 20 smoky delights will satisfy any cravings. Try Traeger Smoked Whole Chicken with Herb Butter or Traeger BBQ Chicken Thighs with Honey Glaze for a sweet and savory twist. Or, go bold with Traeger Cajun Smoked Chicken with Creole Seasoning or Traeger Smoked Chicken Chili with White Beans. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to impress.
