Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite recipes—**Hot Honey Pellet Smoked Pulled Chicken**! This dish not only packs a punch with its sweet yet spicy flavor, but it also brings back some of the best memories from summer barbecues with friends and family. There’s just something about the aroma of smoked meat wafting through the air that makes my heart sing!
The first time I tried making this pulled chicken was at a friend’s backyard gathering, and let me tell you, I never looked back! The combination of the hot honey and smoke creates such a robust flavor that you’ll want to put it on everything. This recipe is simple enough for a weekend cookout but delicious enough to impress your guests. So grab your smoker, and let’s dive into the details!
What’s in Hot Honey Pellet Smoked Pulled Chicken?
Chicken Thighs: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe. They stay juicy and tender while soaking up all that glorious flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could use chicken breasts, but just be mindful they can dry out easier in the smoker!
Hot Honey: This is the star of the show! You can either buy a bottle or whip up your own homemade version. It’s sweet with a fiery kick, and it adds the perfect glaze to the smoky chicken.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil is crucial as it helps the spices adhere to the chicken and enhances the marinade’s flavors.
Spices (Smoked Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Chili Powder, Black Pepper, Salt, Cayenne Pepper): These spices are what give the chicken its warm, smoky undertones. I love using smoked paprika because it really amplifies that smoky flavor from the pellet smoker. Cayenne pepper is optional, but if you love a little extra heat, go for it!
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a nice tangy kick to the overall flavor while helping to tenderize the chicken. Seriously, you’ll want to use this magic potion in all of your marinades!
Chicken Broth: This helps create a baste for the chicken while it’s smoking, keeping it moist and flavorful.
Fresh Herbs: Whether you decide on parsley or cilantro, a sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end adds a beautiful pop of color and fresh flavor to your dish.
Is Hot Honey Pellet Smoked Pulled Chicken Good for You?
This recipe can be a healthy choice depending on how you serve it! Let’s break it down:
Chicken Thighs: They are packed with protein and provide essential nutrients, though you may want to watch portion sizes if you’re keeping an eye on calories.
Hot Honey: While it’s fabulous for flavor, be mindful of portion control! It does add extra sugar, and using too much can lead to unwanted calories.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat that has numerous health benefits, including being heart-healthy and anti-inflammatory. Don’t skimp, but don’t overdo it either!
Overall, this dish can be enjoyed in moderation and paired with fresh veggies or whole grains for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
– 3 pounds chicken thighs (boneless, skinless recommended)
– 1/2 cup hot honey (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Fresh herbs (such as parsley or cilantro) for garnish (optional)
Serves about 6!
How to Make Hot Honey Pellet Smoked Pulled Chicken?
1. **Prep the Chicken:** Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to form a marinade.
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (but if you can, let it marinate overnight for best flavor!).
3. **Preheat the Smoker:** Preheat your pellet smoker to 225°F (107°C).
4. **Prepare for Smoking:** In a small saucepan, mix the hot honey, apple cider vinegar, and chicken broth. Heat gently until well combined.
5. **Smoke the Chicken:** Place the marinated chicken thighs directly on the grill grates. Smoke for about 2 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting with the hot honey mixture halfway through.
6. **Pull the Chicken:** Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
7. **Serve:** Serve the pulled chicken warm, drizzled with additional hot honey and garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This chicken is amazing in sandwiches, tacos, or enjoyed on its own with some coleslaw!
Sizzling Suggestions for Hot Honey Chicken
– Try adding sliced jalapeños to the marinade for an extra kick.
– Serve this pulled chicken with a side of corn on the cob and a refreshing salad for a complete meal!
– Leftovers? Shred the chicken and add it to a quesadilla or a pizza for a delightful twist!
I hope you give this **Hot Honey Pellet Smoked Pulled Chicken** a try! It’s such a fun dish to make and share, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Cooking should be an adventure, so feel free to play with the flavors and make it your own. Enjoy, my fellow foodies! 
