Try this chili lime smoked chicken for a quick and easy recipe this weekend. Simple ingredients but super delicious!
I have made this for my friends, my wife, and my kids, and they all loved every bite. Once you and your family try it, I’m certain they too will fall in love with the recipe.
How To Make Chili Lime Smoked Chicken
In summary, to make this smoked recipe start by combining the chicken rub ingredients which consist of chili powder, cayenne pepper powder, onion powder, garlic powder, ground coriander, sugar, salt, and lime zest. Season chicken with the spice rub. Place in the smoker and set the temperature at 250F. This should take about an hour and a half for the chicken to cook.
For exact measurements of ingredients and bonus tips, check the recipe section below!
What Temperature Is Smoked Chicken Done?
The chicken begins being cooked in a smoker that’s been preheated to 250F. After being in the smoker for 1-1.5 hours, the chicken will reach a temperature of 165F and will be ready to eat.
It’s important to leave the chicken be while it’s cooking. Opening the smoker will make the temperature drop at a quicker rate due to the cooler outside air entering the smoker. The slow drop in temperature is what makes the chicken crispy but also allows for maximum flavor.
Don’t worry about flipping the chicken. The smoker will still cook the chicken evenly.
Looking for other smoked chicken recipes? Try my original smoked chicken breast recipe or my simple smoked chicken thighs. You can also go with my smoked whole chicken recipe which comes out tender and juicy. Want a sandwich-style meal, then definitely check out my smoked pulled chicken recipe. For a finger licking deliciousness, try my smoked chicken wings!
What Type of Wood Is Best for Smoking Chicken?
The only right answer is wood that will complement the chicken. Some of the most popular options used are Cherry, Apple, Pecan, and Mesquite. For this recipe specifically, I went with Mesquite Wood. Don’t be afraid to go with a different option, however.
For instance, Apple Wood is a great option because of the fruity flavor it adds. It makes the chicken sweet but not too sweet. If you like sweet & salty foods, consider giving Apple Wood a chance.
What to Serve With Chili Lime Chicken?
There are numerous delicious options to go with! Some of my most favorite options are rice (rice can go with almost anything), dinner rolls, or breadsticks.
If you think you are up for it, then why not do all three? Personally, I can’t finish all of that food despite it being delicious. But if you believe that you can eat everything with no problem, then, by all means, go ahead. That’s more food for you to enjoy.
What Makes a Good Smoked Chicken Recipe
I’ve already touched on this subject a bit but the wood used. Each woods adds a different flavor to the meat which completely changes the outcome of the chicken. Don’t be mistaken, smoked chicken always taste good but the wood chips make it taste even better,
That’s the goal of cooking. To make a fresh meal that explodes with flavor after each bite. Wood chips add that extra flavor. Do thorough testing on which wood you like the most. This will make the recipe come out even better.
And again, the sides play an important part. But, we can’t forget about the beverage. I like to drink beer with my meals as it makes it go down easier and it’s refreshing. But, if you like to drink red wine, let that be your choice of beverage. Not only does it work well with the meal, but it also adds a bit of fanciness. Who doesn’t like to feel fancy when they’re eating?
OTHER SMOKED RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE
Chili Lime Smoked Chicken
Delicious chili lime flavored smoked chicken
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Chicken Breast or Chicken Thighs
Rub:
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- 2 tsp Lime Zest
- 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper Powder
- 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 tsp Ground Coriander
- 1/2 tsp Sugar
- 1/2 tsp Salt
Instructions
Preheat your smoker to 250F and add your favorite wood chips (I used mesquite).
Combine the rub ingredients in a small bowl.
Season the chicken generously with the spice rub.
Place chicken into the smoker and remove once the internal temperature has reached 165F. This takes around 1-1.5 hours.
