Spicy Smoked Lime Chicken Thighs with Chipotle Spritz King

Ingredients:

Chicken:

• 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Spice Rub:

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp cracked black pepper
• Zest of 1 lime
• 1 lime

Chipotle Spritz King

Instructions:

Prep the Chicken

• Pat the thighs dry, rub with olive oil and squeeze lime over chicken.
• Mix all rub ingredients and coat the chicken thoroughly - get it under the skin too for max flavor.
• Let rest while the grill preheats (~20–30 minutes).
  

Fire Up the Traeger

• Preheat your Traeger to 225°F.
• Use wood pellets like mesquite, cherry, or hickory for a spicy-smoke vibe.
  

Start Smoking

• Place chicken directly on the grill grates, skin-side up.
• Smoke for 45 minutes, then begin spritzing every 30 minutes and adding some more lime juice.

Crank Up the Heat

• After about 1.5–2 hours, once internal temp is ~145°F, bump temp up to 350°F to crisp the skin.
• Continue cooking and spritzing until thighs hit internal temp of 175–180°F for juicy, tender meat.

Rest & Serve

• Let chicken rest 5–10 minutes, then serve with lime wedges and fresh cilantro.
• Pairs amazing with grilled corn, slaw, or smoky black beans.

Pro Tips:

• Want that skin ultra-crispy? Throw it under the broiler for 2–3 min at the end.
• Add a little tequila to your spritz for a wild twist
• Works great with drumsticks or wings too!