How long does it take to smoke chicken breasts at 225?

At 225°F , boneless chicken breasts typically take 1.5 to 2 hours , while bone-in may need 2 to 2.5 hours . Always cook to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.

How to keep chicken breast moist when smoking?

To keep your smoked chicken breast moist: Brine before smoking Cook low and slow Use a water pan in the smoker Spritz with broth or apple cider vinegar Let it rest before slicing

How to smoke chicken so it doesn't dry out?

Use a thermometer and remove the chicken at 160°F , allowing it to rest. Avoid high heat and don’t skip the brine—moisture starts in the prep!

Is it better to smoke a chicken at 225 or 250?

Both temps work well: 225°F gives deeper smoke flavor but takes longer. 250°F speeds things up while still keeping the chicken moist. Choose based on your time and flavor preference.

Smoked Chicken Breast – Best Easy Recipe for Juicy Flavor

Description

Juicy, flavorful smoked chicken breast made low and slow over wood smoke. This easy recipe delivers tender, smoky meat every time—perfect for BBQs, meal prep, or a healthy protein-packed dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

2–4 chicken breasts (boneless or bone-in)
¼ cup kosher salt (for brine)
2 tbsp brown sugar (optional for brine/rub)
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp olive oil or yellow mustard (binder)
Optional: cayenne, lemon zest, fresh herbs
Wood chips or pellets (applewood, cherry, or pecan)

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Instructions

Brine (Optional):
In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of cold water, kosher salt, and sugar. Submerge chicken and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
Season:
Lightly coat the chicken with oil or mustard. Apply dry rub evenly on all sides.
Preheat Smoker:
Heat smoker to 225°F. Add wood chips or pellets of your choice.
Smoke:
Place chicken on smoker grates. Smoke until internal temp reaches 165°F (remove at 160°F and let rest 5–10 minutes).

Rest & Serve:
Slice against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

Bone-in breasts take longer but are juicier.
Use a meat thermometer—don’t rely on time alone.
Brining is optional but highly recommended for best texture.
Add a water pan to your smoker for extra moisture.
Spritz chicken with apple juice or broth during the cook to prevent drying out.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Dinner, BBQ
Method: Smoking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (approx. 6 oz)
Calories: 220
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 620mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 95mg