Traeger Grilled Chicken is not just a recipe, it’s an outdoor cooking trip that combines juicy, flavorful chicken with the ease and precision of a wood pellet grill. If you’re looking for a reliable method to nail that perfect grilled chicken every time, the Traeger grill is your best friend.
- Quick Answer: For juicy and flavorful Traeger grilled chicken, marinate your chicken, set the grill to 375°F, and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
A Traeger grill uses wood pellets to provide a unique smoky flavor, making every bite of your chicken delicious and memorable. It’s straightforward to use, even for beginners, and offers versatility beyond just grilling—think smoking, roasting, baking, and more.
Ready to lift your outdoor cooking game? Let’s dive in to make the most out of your Traeger!
Preparing Your Chicken
Marinade Essentials
A good marinade is key to flavorful and juicy Traeger grilled chicken. The right mix of ingredients can infuse your chicken with mouthwatering flavors while keeping it tender. Here’s a simple and effective marinade:
- Olive oil: Acts as a base and helps distribute other flavors evenly.
- Lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness and helps tenderize the meat.
- Dijon mustard: Provides a tangy depth of flavor.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Essential for basic seasoning.
- Dried thyme and paprika: Adds earthy and smoky notes.
- Garlic: Freshly minced or powdered, it’s a must for robust flavor.
Combine all these ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well blended. Place your chicken in an airtight container, pour the marinade over it, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
Seasoning Techniques
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to add some extra layers of flavor with seasoning. Here are the steps:
- Traeger Fin & Feather Rub: This rub is specifically designed for poultry, offering a balanced blend of spices that complement the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Olive oil: Lightly brush the chicken with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and to ensure a crispy exterior.
- Traeger BBQ sauces: Mix Traeger ‘Que BBQ Sauce and Traeger Sweet & Heat BBQ Sauce in a small bowl. This combination offers a perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors.
Before grilling, coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the Fin & Feather Rub. As the chicken grills, brush it with the BBQ sauce mixture during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will create a caramelized, flavorful crust.
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your Traeger grilled chicken is not only juicy but also bursting with layers of delicious flavors.
Next, we’ll cover the essential grilling techniques to achieve perfect results every time.
Grilling Techniques for Traeger Grilled Chicken
Preheating Your Traeger Grill
Proper preheating is crucial for Traeger grilled chicken. Set the temperature to 500°F and close the lid. Preheat for about 15 minutes. This ensures the grill is hot enough to sear the chicken, locking in the juices.
For other recipes, you might need different temperatures. For example:
– 450°F for a bit less sear but still a quick cook.
– 375°F for a balanced approach, maintaining juiciness.
– 225°F for a low and slow method, perfect for maximum smoke flavor.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
Temperature control is key for juicy, flavorful chicken. Here are some guidelines:
- Chicken breasts: Grill at 500°F. Insert a probe into the thickest part and cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F. This usually takes 20-30 minutes.
- Chicken thighs: Preheat to 450°F. Grill skin-side down for 20 minutes, then flip and cook for another 10 minutes. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Low and slow: For a smoked flavor, set the Traeger to 225°F. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F, which can take about 1 hour.
Resting Your Chicken
Resting your chicken is a crucial step often overlooked. Once you remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and juicy.
- 5 minutes: Ideal for smaller pieces like chicken breasts.
- 10 minutes: Better for larger cuts like whole chickens or thick thighs.
Resting ensures you get the most out of your Traeger grilled chicken, keeping it moist and tender.
By mastering these grilling techniques, you’ll achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time. Next, let’s explore the best cuts for Traeger grilled chicken.
Best Cuts for Traeger Grilled Chicken
When it comes to Traeger grilled chicken, choosing the right cut is crucial for achieving juicy, flavorful results. Here, we’ll focus on two popular options: grilled chicken breasts and grilled chicken thighs.
Grilled Chicken Breasts
Chicken breasts are a lean and versatile option. They cook quickly and can be seasoned in numerous ways.
Ingredients:
– 3 large chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon avocado oil
– 3/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Steps:
1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 375°F.
2. Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to make them thinner.
3. Coat each piece with avocado oil.
4. Season all sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tip: Use a digital meat thermometer to ensure accurate cooking.
Grilled Chicken Thighs
For richer flavor and juicier meat, bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs are an excellent choice. The bone and skin add extra flavor and moisture.
Ingredients:
– Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– Olive oil
– Lemon juice
– Dijon mustard
– Sea salt
– Black pepper
– Dried thyme
– Paprika
Steps:
1. Marinate the thighs with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, sea salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your Traeger grill to 450°F.
3. Place the thighs skin side down and grill for 15 minutes to achieve crispy skin.
4. Flip and cook for another 10-15 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Tip: Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes after grilling to lock in the juices.
By selecting the right cut and following these tips, you’ll master the art of Traeger grilled chicken. Up next, we’ll dive into creative serving ideas and how to store leftovers effectively.
Serving Suggestions and Leftovers
Creative Serving Ideas
Traeger grilled chicken is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some creative ways to serve your deliciously grilled chicken:
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Grilled Veggies: Pair your chicken with a medley of grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus. The smoky flavor of the veggies complements the chicken perfectly.
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Chicken Salad: Make a slightly smoky chicken salad by chopping the grilled chicken and mixing it with mayonnaise, celery, and a bit of Dijon mustard. Serve it over a bed of greens or in a sandwich.
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Chicken Pizza: Tear up the grilled chicken and use it as a topping for your homemade pizza. Add some BBQ sauce, red onions, and cilantro for a BBQ chicken pizza twist.
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Chicken Tacos and Quesadillas: Use the grilled chicken as a filling for tacos or quesadillas. Add some shredded cheese, lettuce, and your favorite salsa.
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Chicken Stir Fry: Incorporate the grilled chicken into a stir fry with your choice of vegetables and a savory sauce. Serve it over rice or noodles.
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Chicken Bowls: Create a nutritious bowl by combining grilled chicken with quinoa, roasted veggies, and a drizzle of hot honey sauce.
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Parmesan Noodles: Mix pieces of grilled chicken with cooked noodles and a creamy Parmesan sauce for a comforting meal.
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Macaroni Salad: Add chopped grilled chicken to your favorite macaroni salad recipe for an added protein boost.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store and reheat them properly to maintain their flavor and texture.
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Airtight Container: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to three days.
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Freezer: For longer storage, place the chicken in a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. Vacuum sealing can extend this period even further.
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Reheating:
- Microwave: For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Sous Vide: For a more even reheating, use a sous vide water bath. This method ensures the chicken stays juicy.
- Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
By following these tips, you’ll ensure your Traeger grilled chicken remains delicious, whether you’re serving it fresh off the grill or enjoying leftovers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Traeger Grilled Chicken
What temperature do you grill chicken on a pellet grill?
The ideal temperature for grilling chicken on a pellet grill is 225°F. This low and slow method allows the chicken to absorb the smoky flavors from the wood pellets. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat. This method usually takes about 1 hour.
How long does it take a chicken to cook on the Traeger?
When grilling at a higher temperature, such as 375°F, you can expect your chicken to cook in roughly 1 hour. This is a great balance between cooking time and flavor infusion. Always check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F before serving.
How long to grill chicken at 450 degrees?
For faster grilling, set your Traeger to 450°F. At this temperature, chicken can be ready in 10-12 minutes. However, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F. This quick method is perfect for those in a hurry but still wanting juicy, flavorful chicken.
By mastering these temperatures and cooking times, you’ll be well on your way to perfect Traeger grilled chicken every time.
Conclusion
At Grill Wizard Oz, we are dedicated to helping you become a grilling pro. Our expert-driven content is designed to simplify outdoor cooking, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for detailed outdoor cooking guides or comprehensive comparisons of the best grilling equipment, we have you covered. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed decisions and achieve juicy, flavorful results with your Traeger grilled chicken.
For more tips, recipes, and expert advice on Traeger grills, visit our Traeger category page. Happy grilling!
