This recipe for Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts brings the taste of summer to your table. With Greek marinated chicken cooked slowly on a pellet grill, you’ll experience layers of herbaceous, tart, and smoky flavors in every bite. Perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or an easy weeknight meal, this dish will impress your guests and make your taste buds dance.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: The marinade comes together in just minutes, allowing for a hands-off cooking experience.
- Flavorful Results: Enjoy a delicious combination of fresh herbs and spices that elevate simple chicken breasts to gourmet status.
- Versatile Dish: Serve with sides like grilled veggies or a fresh salad for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
- Perfectly Juicy Chicken: Cooking low and slow ensures the chicken remains tender and juicy every time.
Tools and Preparation
To make perfect Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts, you’ll need a few essential tools. These tools will help ensure that your cooking experience is smooth and successful.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Pellet grill (Traeger)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Ziploc bag or casserole dish
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Pellet grill (Traeger): Provides consistent heat for even cooking while infusing a smoky flavor into the chicken.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining marinade ingredients thoroughly for maximum flavor absorption.
Ingredients
This easy Traeger Chicken Breasts recipe features Greek marinated chicken breasts cooked low and slow on a pellet grill. It’s the perfect summer meal with layers of herbaceous, tart, and smoky flavors in every bite!
For the Marinade
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon red apple vinegar
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic (grated or minced)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 Tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken (breasts or thighs, pounded to a uniform thickness)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl or measuring cup, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a large ziploc bag or casserole dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish.
Step 3: Refrigerate
Allow chicken to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes but up to overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Bring to Room Temperature
Once ready to cook, remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Preheat Your Grill
Preheat your Traeger (or other pellet grill) to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 7: Rest Before Serving
Remove from the grill and transfer to a clean plate. Tent with foil and let rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Enjoy your flavorful Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts!
How to Serve Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
Serving Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts can elevate your meal and impress your guests. With its juicy, flavorful profile, it pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes.
Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: Toss together arugula, spinach, and romaine with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Greek Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist that complements the chicken’s flavors.
Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill lightly seasoned zucchini and colorful bell peppers alongside the chicken for a vibrant dish.
- Asparagus: Roast asparagus spears until tender-crisp for an elegant touch on your plate.
Dipping Sauces
- Tzatziki: This yogurt-based sauce adds a creamy and tangy element that enhances the Greek flavors of the marinade.
- BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce provides sweetness and depth, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
How to Perfect Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
To ensure your Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts are delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold Marinade: Use fresh herbs in your marinade for enhanced flavor. Fresh oregano or thyme will elevate the dish.
- Uniform Thickness: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to promote even cooking. This prevents some parts from drying out while others remain undercooked.
- Resting Time: Allow the grilled chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain juices for a moist result.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add spices like paprika or cumin to the marinade for an extra kick.
Best Side Dishes for Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience when serving Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts. Here are some delightful options.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes mashed with roasted garlic create a comforting side that pairs well with grilled chicken.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite that contrasts nicely with the smoky flavors of the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad featuring cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley makes for a nutritious complement.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances summer dining and adds sweetness to your plate.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Caramelized sweet potatoes bring warmth and complexity that balances savory chicken flavors.
- Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans provide protein and fiber, making them a satisfying choice alongside grilled meats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Skipping the Marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always give it at least 30 minutes in the fridge for optimal taste.
- Not Preheating the Grill: Cooking on a cold grill can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your Traeger to 400 degrees for even and juicy chicken.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Leaving chicken on the grill too long can dry it out. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer; it should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Neglecting to Rest: Cutting into chicken right off the grill will lose juices. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes covered with foil before slicing.
- Using Improper Containers: Storing marinated chicken in non-airtight containers can lead to contamination or loss of flavor. Use ziplock bags or glass containers instead.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
- Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts.
Can I use other cuts of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While this recipe focuses on chicken breasts, thighs also work well and provide additional juiciness.
How do I know when my Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts are done?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances flavor even more, just ensure it’s stored properly in the refrigerator.
What sides pair well with Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts?
Consider serving with grilled vegetables, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add different herbs or spices according to your preference. A touch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs can change the flavor profile beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts offer an easy way to create a flavorful summer meal that impresses family and friends alike. With its herbaceous marinade and smoky finish, this recipe is versatile enough to customize with your favorite spices or side dishes. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own!
Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts
This Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts recipe captures the essence of summer with its flavorful Greek marinade and perfectly smoked chicken. The process is simple, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings, barbecues, or an effortless weeknight meal. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic herbs, this chicken delivers a mouthwatering experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Cooked low and slow on a Traeger pellet grill, each bite is tender, juicy, and infused with smoky goodness. Pair it with fresh salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately four people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lemon zest and juice, garlic, honey, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken in a Ziploc bag or casserole dish and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover to coat well.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Bring the marinated chicken to room temperature for about 20 minutes before grilling.
- Preheat your Traeger grill to 400°F.
- Grill the chicken for about 15-20 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider using fresh herbs like thyme or basil in the marinade. Ensure even cooking by pounding chicken to a uniform thickness. Experiment with spices such as smoked paprika or cumin to customize your dish.
