When summer arrives, our smoker gets a lot of use. These are the smoker recipes we return to most often. From tender, smoky meats to simple, flavor-packed sides and snacks, these recipes are easy to prepare and always crowd-pleasers.
Classic Smoker Meats (BBQ Favorites)
These classic smoker recipes bring big, bold barbecue flavor. Slow-cooked and packed with smoke, they’re the dishes that define summer cookouts.
Smoked Brisket
Juicy and deeply smoky with a flavorful crust, smoked brisket is a summer staple that feeds a crowd and always impresses.
Smoked Pulled Pork
Fall-apart tender and rich with smoke, pulled pork is a BBQ classic that’s perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or a hearty plate.
Smoked Tri Tip
Tender inside with a savory crust, tri tip smokes quickly and slices beautifully for feeding a group.
Smoked Ribs
Sticky, smoky, and incredibly tender—ribs are often the first thing to disappear at a backyard gathering.
Smoked Chicken Recipes (Easy + Crowd-Friendly)
Chicken on the smoker is always a winner—simple to prepare, versatile, and full of flavor.
Smoked Chicken Thighs
Juicy, well-seasoned, and nearly foolproof—smoked thighs deliver great flavor and crispy skin every time.
Whole Smoked Chicken
An easy way to get tender, smoky meat with lots of flavor—great for an uncomplicated weeknight meal or a weekend roast.
Dry Rub Smoked Chicken Wings
Crispy, smoky wings coated in a bold dry rub—perfect for game day or a summer party.
Smoked Chicken Breasts
Tender and juicy smoked chicken breasts are a reliable option for easy weeknight dinners and meal prep.
Smoker Comfort Foods (Unexpected Favorites)
These creative smoker recipes surprise guests in the best way—comfort food with a smoky twist.
Smoked Meatloaf
All the comfort of classic meatloaf with added smoky depth—simple to prepare and full of flavor.
Smoked Chex Mix
Crunchy, savory snack mix with a hint of smoke—ideal for parties or grazing while you grill.
Smoked Cheezits
A simple snack transformed by smoke—crispy, bold, and addictive.
Smoked Seafood (Light & Flavorful)
For something lighter, smoked seafood like salmon is simple to prepare and full of fresh, smoky flavor.
Smoked Salmon
Light, bright, and smoky—smoked salmon is a great option for appetizers, salads, or a lighter main course.
Smoked Desserts (Sweet & Smoky)
Yes—dessert on the smoker is possible and totally worth it.
Smoked Peach Crisp
Sweet, juicy peaches topped with a golden, smoky crumble—smoky desserts are a delightful ending to any meal.
These smoker recipes are the ones we rely on all summer: simple, flavorful, and worth firing up the smoker for. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or cooking a casual dinner, any of these favorites will deliver. Pick one and enjoy the smoky goodness!
Best Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Ingredients
- 3 Pounds Chicken Wings
- 1/4 Cup Dark Brown Sugar
- 1/4 Cup Light Brown Sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Kosher Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground Mustard
- 1 Tablespoon Smoked Paprika
- 2 teaspoons Oregano
- 2 teaspoons Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
Instructions
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Preheat your smoker. If it has a super smoke setting, use it with the lid closed for 5 minutes.
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Set the smoker to 225°F (about 107°C) and preheat with the lid closed for 10 minutes.
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Whisk the dry rub together in a bowl: dark brown sugar, light brown sugar, kosher salt, ground mustard, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, and pepper.
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In a disposable pan or large bowl, toss the chicken wings with the dry rub until well coated.
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Arrange the wings in a single layer in the pan and place the pan in the smoker.
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Smoke for 1½–2 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
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Remove the pan, increase the heat to high (or heat a grill), and transfer wings to the grill to develop crisp grill marks on each side.
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Tent the wings with foil and rest for 5 minutes before serving.
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Serve and enjoy.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation and should be used as a guideline.