Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts: An Irresistible 20-Minute Favorite!

If you’re anything like me, some days you just need a meal that’s easy, packed with flavor, and won’t leave your kitchen looking like a tornado hit it. Enter: Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts — your new best friend on busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike.

These smoked chicken breasts aren’t just juicy and tender; they’re downright irresistible, thanks to a zesty marinade and that perfect hint of smoky goodness. Plus, if you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just craving something other than another tired oven-baked dinner, this recipe has your back.

So, pull up a chair (or lean on your kitchen counter with a cup of coffee, no judgment here) and let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts Recipe

There’s something magical about tossing chicken on the Traeger and letting it do its thing. But what makes this Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts recipe shine?

• Flavor explosion: Thanks to the red wine vinegar, lemon zest, and a kiss of honey.
• Juicy perfection: No dry, sad chicken here. The marinade tenderizes it beautifully.
• Quick and easy: From fridge to plate in under 45 minutes (including marinade time if you’re in a pinch).
• Flexible: Works with chicken thighs too if that’s what you’ve got on hand!

Honestly, once you try this, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with boring baked chicken.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here, but feel free to swap in boneless or bone-in thighs. Just know that bone-in cuts will need a little more time on the grill.
• Olive oil
• Red wine vinegar – Adds that bright, slightly sweet punch.
• Lemon juice and zest – Hello, freshness!
• Garlic – Because everything is better with a little garlic.
• Honey – Balances the savory with a touch of sweet.
• Dried oregano – Or toss in some basil, rosemary, or thyme if you’re feeling fancy.
• Onion powder
• Salt and black pepper

How to Make Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts

1. Mix Up That Marinade In a medium bowl or big ol’ measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice and zest, minced garlic, honey, oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper. (Bonus points if you dance a little while whisking.)
2. Get That Chicken Soaking Place the chicken breasts into a large Ziploc bag or a casserole dish. Pour that heavenly marinade over the top, seal it up, and toss it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes — or overnight if you’re super prepared (teach me your ways!).
3. Prep Your Grill When you’re ready to cook, pull the chicken out of the fridge and let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, fire up your Traeger (or any pellet grill) and preheat it to 400°F.
4. Grill Time Place the marinated chicken directly on the grates and grill for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re aiming for a nice, smoky char and an internal temp of 165°F.
5. Rest and Serve Remove the chicken from the grill, transfer it to a clean plate, and tent it with foil. Let it rest for 5 minutes (this locks in those tasty juices!). Slice it up and dig in.

Helpful Tips for Smoking Chicken Breasts

• Don’t skip the resting step! It’s tempting, but slicing too early lets all those yummy juices escape.
• Marinate longer if you can. Overnight marinating equals next-level flavor.
• Check your temp. Invest in a meat thermometer — it’s the real MVP.
• Mix up your herbs! Feeling adventurous? Throw in a pinch of thyme or rosemary.

A Little Storytime…

One summer, I hosted a backyard BBQ and decided to whip up these smoked chicken breasts on a whim. I figured, “Eh, it’ll be fine.” Little did I know, it would become the most requested dish of the night — even outshining the ribs (sorry, ribs!). Since then, it’s been my go-to when I want to impress with minimal effort.

FAQs about Smoked Chicken Breasts

Conclusion

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping lunches for the week, or just treating yourself (because you deserve it!), Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts is a must-try. It’s quick, flavorful, and foolproof — making you look like a total kitchen rockstar without even breaking a sweat.

Ready to bring a little smoky magic to your table? Grab that chicken and let’s fire up the grill!

More Delicious Chicken Recipes to Try

If you loved this recipe, you’ll definitely want to explore some of these other flavorful chicken dishes:

• Try this sweet and spicy Sweet Chili Chicken for a fun twist.
• Fire up the grill with these juicy Pineapple Chicken Kebabs.
• Indulge in the creamy goodness of Mozzarella Chicken in Basil Cream Sauce.
• Elevate your marinade game with The Best Greek Chicken Marinade for even more Mediterranean flavor.

Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts

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• Author: Aneta
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

These juicy Traeger Smoked Chicken Breasts are marinated in a vibrant, zesty blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon, garlic, and honey, then smoked to perfection on a pellet grill. Quick, flavorful, and incredibly tender — perfect for busy nights or backyard BBQs!

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Ingredients

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• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a medium bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

2. Place the chicken breasts in a large Ziploc bag or casserole dish and pour the marinade over them.

3. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.

4. Remove chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking.

5. Preheat your Traeger (or other pellet grill) to 400°F.

6. Grill the chicken for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

7. Remove from the grill, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

You can substitute boneless or bone-in chicken thighs. Bone-in cuts will take slightly longer to cook.
Marinating overnight yields maximum flavor and tenderness.
Always let chicken rest before slicing to lock in juices.
For even more flavor, add dried basil, rosemary, or thyme to the marinade.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes (includes marination time)
• Cook Time: 20 mins
• Category: Main course
• Method: Grilling/Smoking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
• Calories: 290 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 13 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 4 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg