Maple Glazed Smoked Chicken Legs Thighs

Ingredients:

8 bone-in, skin-on chicken legs/thighs
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning evenly over the chicken.

Preheat Smoker: Heat smoker to 225°F using hickory or applewood chips for flavor.

Smoke the Chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side up on the smoker grates. Smoke for about 1.5–2 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Make the Glaze: While the chicken smokes, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Glaze the Chicken: Brush the maple glaze over the chicken during the last 20 minutes of smoking. Repeat once for a richer flavor.

Crisp the Skin (Optional): Increase smoker temperature to 375°F or transfer chicken to a grill to crisp the skin for 5–10 minutes.

Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Enjoy these sweet and smoky chicken thighs as a main dish with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes!