This Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast is the ideal dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a cozy family dinner. With its tender, juicy meat and rich smoky flavor, this chicken will wow your guests and leave everyone asking for seconds. The combination of Traeger Fin & Feather rub and butter creates a flavorful crust that enhances the overall experience, making it a must-try recipe for chicken lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The deep smoky taste combined with the savory seasoning makes each bite unforgettable.
• Easy to Prepare: With just five simple ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and quick to whip up.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this dish suits all events.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, this chicken breast is not only delicious but also nutritious.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with sides like salads or grilled veggies to create a complete meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures that your smoked chicken breast turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Smoker
• Meat Thermometer
• Basting Brush
• Aluminum Foil

Importance of Each Tool

• Smoker: A good quality smoker provides the necessary environment to infuse that rich smoky flavor into the chicken.
• Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the perfect internal temperature without overcooking.
• Basting Brush: Helps apply butter evenly for added moisture and flavor during cooking.

Ingredients

Chicken

• 5 Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless)

Marinade

• 3 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 5 tablespoons Traeger Fin & Feather Rub

Butter

• 1 stick Butter (unsalted)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps ensure that the olive oil and rub adhere well.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. Drizzle olive oil over each chicken breast.
2. Generously sprinkle Traeger Fin & Feather rub on both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Preheat Your Smoker

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow method is key to achieving perfectly moist smoked chicken breast.

Step 4: Smoke the Chicken

1. Place seasoned chicken breasts in the smoker.
2. Close the lid and smoke for about 60 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Add Butter for Extra Flavor

During the last 10 minutes of smoking, place a slice of butter on each chicken breast to enhance moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your perfectly moist smoked chicken breast!

How to Serve Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

Serving your Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast can elevate any meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions that will complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

Sandwiches

• BBQ Chicken Sandwich – Shred the smoked chicken and mix it with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy sandwich.
• Chicken Salad Sandwich – Dice the chicken and mix it with mayo, celery, and spices for a refreshing twist.

Salads

• Smoked Chicken Caesar Salad – Add sliced smoked chicken to romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a hearty salad.
• Mediterranean Chickpea Salad – Toss in chunks of smoked chicken with chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a protein-packed dish.

Wraps

• Chicken Avocado Wrap – Roll up slices of smoked chicken with avocado, lettuce, and a spicy mayo in a tortilla for a quick lunch.
• Buffalo Chicken Wrap – Combine shredded smoked chicken with buffalo sauce and serve in a wrap with lettuce and ranch dressing.

How to Perfect Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

To achieve the best results with your smoked chicken breast, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Start with fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and moisture retention.
• Brine Before Smoking – Brining the chicken can enhance its moisture levels and infuse additional flavor throughout the meat.
• Maintain Consistent Temperature – Keep your smoker at a steady temperature between 225°F to 250°F to ensure even cooking.
• Rest After Cooking – Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after smoking. This step helps redistribute the juices within the meat.
• Use an Instant-Read Thermometer – Check for doneness by ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F to keep your chicken perfectly moist.
• Avoid Overcooking – Monitor cooking time closely; overcooking can lead to dry meat. Aim for about 60 minutes, depending on thickness.

Best Side Dishes for Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

Pairing your smoked chicken breast with delightful sides can make your meal even better. Here are some fantastic side dish ideas.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and freshness to your plate.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides a cool contrast to the warm smoke flavor of the chicken.
3. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread complements the savory notes of smoked chicken perfectly; serve it warm for added comfort.
4. Baked Beans – Rich and hearty baked beans offer a sweet yet smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with smoked meats.
5. Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad is always a crowd-pleaser; enhance it with herbs or spices for extra flavor.
6. Macaroni and Cheese – A cheesy side brings comfort; consider adding jalapeños or bacon bits for an exciting twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people struggle with smoking chicken breast, leading to dryness or uneven cooking. Here are common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the Rub: Not applying the Traeger Fin & Feather rub can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to generously coat your chicken breasts with the rub for maximum flavor.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken breast for too long will dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Not Resting the Meat: Cutting into the chicken right after smoking can cause juices to escape. Allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring Wood Choices: Using low-quality wood can affect flavor. Opt for quality wood pellets that complement the chicken, such as hickory or applewood.
• Inadequate Preparation: Failing to prepare your smoker properly can lead to inconsistent cooking. Preheat your Traeger and make sure it’s at the right temperature before adding the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow chicken to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place chicken in a baking dish with a little broth or water, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long to smoke chicken breast?

Smoking chicken breast typically takes about 60 minutes at 225°F. Always check with a meat thermometer for safety.

How to smoke a chicken breast?

To smoke a chicken breast, preheat your smoker, apply your favorite rub, and place the breasts in the smoker until they reach 165°F.

What temperature to smoke chicken breast?

The ideal smoking temperature is around 225°F. This allows the chicken to cook slowly and retain its moisture.

Can I use other seasonings besides Traeger Rub?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices and marinades that suit your taste preferences.

How should I slice smoked chicken breast?

Slice against the grain for the most tender pieces. This will enhance the texture and make it easier to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast recipe is not just delicious but also versatile. You can serve it on salads, sandwiches, or as a main dish. Customize it further by trying different rubs or marinades based on your taste! Don’t hesitate; give it a try today!

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Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 5

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Description

Indulge in the succulent flavors of this Perfectly Moist Smoked Chicken Breast, ideal for any gathering or family dinner. Infused with a rich smoky aroma and seasoned to perfection with Traeger Fin & Feather rub, this dish guarantees tender, juicy meat that will impress your guests. With just five ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can create a mouthwatering centerpiece that’s both delicious and healthy. Serve it alongside fresh salads or grilled veggies for a complete meal that everyone will love. This recipe is not just about cooking chicken; it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience at your table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 tablespoons Traeger Fin & Feather rub
• 1 stick unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
2. Drizzle olive oil over each breast and season generously with Traeger Fin & Feather rub; let sit for 15 minutes.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C).
4. Place seasoned chicken in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 60 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. In the last 10 minutes, top each breast with a slice of butter.
6. Remove from smoker and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing; garnish with chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Smoking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor. Consider brining the chicken beforehand to enhance moisture. Monitor the smoker’s temperature closely for even cooking.