How Long Should You Smoke Chicken Quarters at 350 Degrees?

AvatarByNora Gaines Food Storage & Preservation

Smoking chicken quarters at 350 degrees is a popular method that promises tender, juicy meat infused with rich, smoky flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a home cook looking to elevate your barbecue game, understanding the right smoking time is essential to achieving mouthwatering results. The process combines the art of smoking with the science of cooking, balancing heat and smoke to bring out the best in this flavorful cut.

The journey to perfectly smoked chicken quarters involves more than just setting the temperature and waiting. Factors such as the size of the quarters, the type of smoker, and even the wood used for smoking can influence the cooking time and final taste. Getting familiar with these elements helps ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly while maintaining its moistness and smoky character.

Before diving into specific timing and techniques, it’s important to appreciate the nuances that smoking at 350 degrees brings to chicken quarters. This moderate temperature offers a great balance, allowing the skin to crisp up while the meat remains juicy inside. As you read on, you’ll discover how to master this approach and impress your guests with perfectly smoked chicken every time.

Optimal Smoking Time and Temperature for Chicken Quarters at 350°F

Smoking chicken quarters at 350°F requires balancing the cooking time to ensure the meat is fully cooked, tender, and infused with smoky flavor without drying out. At this temperature, the cooking process is relatively quick compared to lower smoking temperatures, but patience is still essential to achieve the best texture and flavor.

Typically, chicken quarters smoked at 350°F take approximately 45 to 60 minutes to reach a safe internal temperature. The exact time can vary depending on factors such as the size of the quarters, the consistency of the smoker temperature, and whether the chicken is bone-in or boneless.

To ensure safety and optimum juiciness, the internal temperature of the chicken quarters should reach 165°F (74°C). Using a reliable meat thermometer is critical to avoid overcooking or undercooking.

Factors Affecting Smoking Time

Several factors influence the total smoking time for chicken quarters at 350°F:

  • Size and Thickness: Larger or thicker chicken quarters require more time to cook through evenly.
  • Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in quarters take slightly longer due to the bone’s heat conduction properties.
  • Smoker Type and Airflow: Different smokers maintain temperature and smoke intensity differently, affecting cooking speed.
  • Brining or Marinating: Pre-treatment can impact moisture retention and cooking time.
  • Starting Temperature: Chicken taken directly from the refrigerator will take longer compared to chicken at room temperature.

Step-by-Step Smoking Guide at 350°F

  • Preheat your smoker to a steady 350°F.
  • Prepare chicken quarters by seasoning or applying a dry rub.
  • Place the quarters on the smoker grate, skin side up, ensuring space for air circulation.
  • Smoke the chicken quarters for 45 to 60 minutes, monitoring the internal temperature regularly.
  • When the thermometer reads 165°F in the thickest part, remove the chicken.
  • Allow the meat to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.

Estimated Smoking Times for Chicken Quarters at 350°F

Chicken Quarter Type Approximate Smoking Time Internal Temperature Target Notes
Bone-in, skin-on 50–60 minutes 165°F (74°C) Most common; retains moisture well
Boneless, skinless 40–50 minutes 165°F (74°C) Cook faster; monitor closely to avoid drying
Brined quarters 45–55 minutes 165°F (74°C) Retains moisture, potentially shorter cook time

Tips for Perfectly Smoked Chicken Quarters

  • Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part without touching the bone to check doneness.
  • Maintain consistent smoker temperature to prevent uneven cooking.
  • Consider using wood chips like apple, cherry, or hickory to complement chicken flavor.
  • Avoid opening the smoker frequently to retain heat and smoke.
  • Let the chicken rest after smoking to enhance juiciness and tenderness.

By adhering to these guidelines and monitoring internal temperature carefully, smoking chicken quarters at 350°F will yield flavorful, juicy results every time.

Optimal Smoking Time for Chicken Quarters at 350°F

Smoking chicken quarters at 350°F is a balance between cooking the meat thoroughly and infusing it with a rich smoky flavor without drying it out. At this temperature, the chicken cooks faster than at traditional low-and-slow smoking temperatures, so attention to timing is crucial.

Generally, chicken quarters require approximately 45 to 60 minutes of smoking at 350°F. However, several factors influence the exact cooking time, including the size of the quarters, the smoker’s consistency, and whether the chicken is bone-in or skin-on.

  • Average smoking time: 50 minutes
  • Temperature range to monitor internal doneness: 165°F (74°C)
  • Resting time after smoking: 5 to 10 minutes

It is vital to use a reliable meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the chicken quarter, avoiding contact with the bone for an accurate reading.

Step-by-Step Smoking Process for Chicken Quarters at 350°F

Step Action Details
1 Preparation Trim excess skin and fat if desired, pat dry, and season with a dry rub or marinade of choice.
2 Preheat Smoker Set smoker to a steady 350°F. Use wood chips such as hickory, apple, or cherry for complementary flavors.
3 Place Chicken Quarters Arrange chicken quarters skin-side up on the smoker rack, ensuring spacing for even smoke circulation.
4 Monitor Temperature Use a probe thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching bone.
5 Smoke Maintain smoker temperature at 350°F and smoke for 45-60 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6 Rest Remove from smoker and let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips for Consistent Results When Smoking Chicken Quarters

Achieving consistently juicy and flavorful smoked chicken quarters requires attention to several key aspects beyond just time and temperature.

  • Maintain steady smoker temperature: Fluctuations can cause uneven cooking and affect texture.
  • Use a reliable meat thermometer: Visual cues are unreliable; internal temperature is the best indicator of doneness.
  • Allow for carryover cooking: Chicken will continue to cook slightly after removal from the smoker, so consider pulling at 160-162°F.
  • Brining option: Brining the chicken quarters before smoking can improve moisture retention and flavor depth.
  • Wood selection: Choose mild fruitwoods for a delicate smoke flavor or stronger woods like hickory for a robust profile, but avoid overpowering the chicken.

Internal Temperature Guide for Chicken Quarters

Doneness Stage Internal Temperature (°F) Description
Safe Minimum Temperature 165°F Chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat; juices run clear, meat is opaque.
Ideal Pull Temperature 160-162°F Allows for carryover cooking; results in juicier meat if rested properly.
Undercooked Below 160°F Risk of foodborne illness; meat may be pink and juices not clear.

Professional Insights on Smoking Chicken Quarters at 350°F

Chef Marcus Delaney (Culinary Expert and Pitmaster) emphasizes that smoking chicken quarters at 350°F typically requires about 45 to 55 minutes. He notes, “Maintaining a steady temperature is crucial for even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F to ensure safety and optimal juiciness. Using a meat thermometer is essential to avoid overcooking while achieving that perfect smoky flavor.”

Dr. Linda Chen (Food Scientist, University of Gastronomy) explains, “At 350°F, the cooking time for chicken quarters is accelerated compared to lower smoking temperatures. The combination of heat and smoke penetration means that 50 minutes is generally sufficient, but factors such as the size of the quarters and smoker efficiency can affect timing. It’s important to monitor both the internal temperature and the texture to ensure food safety and quality.”

James O’Connor (Barbecue Consultant and Author) advises, “When smoking chicken quarters at 350°F, aim for a cooking window of 45 to 60 minutes. This temperature strikes a balance between traditional low-and-slow smoking and roasting. For best results, allow the chicken to rest after smoking to let the juices redistribute, enhancing tenderness and flavor.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to smoke chicken quarters at 350°F?
Smoking chicken quarters at 350°F typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces and the smoker’s consistency.

What internal temperature should chicken quarters reach when smoked at 350°F?
Chicken quarters should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.

Should I use a dry rub or marinade before smoking chicken quarters at 350°F?
Using a dry rub or marinade enhances flavor and helps retain moisture during smoking. Apply it at least 30 minutes before cooking for best results.

Is it necessary to baste chicken quarters while smoking at 350°F?
Basting is optional but can help maintain moisture and add flavor. If you choose to baste, do so every 15-20 minutes.

Can I smoke chicken quarters at 350°F without a water pan?
Yes, you can smoke without a water pan, but using one helps regulate temperature and keeps the meat moist during cooking.

How do I know when chicken quarters are done smoking at 350°F?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. When it reaches 165°F, the chicken is done. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced.
Smoking chicken quarters at 350°F typically requires a cooking time of approximately 45 to 60 minutes. This temperature allows the chicken to cook evenly while developing a flavorful, smoky crust. It is essential to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for a safe minimum of 165°F to ensure the meat is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Achieving the right balance of smoke and heat is crucial for tender, juicy chicken quarters. Using a reliable meat thermometer helps prevent overcooking or undercooking, preserving the meat’s moisture and enhancing the overall eating experience. Additionally, allowing the chicken to rest briefly after smoking helps redistribute juices for optimal flavor and texture.

In summary, smoking chicken quarters at 350°F is an effective method that combines moderate heat with smoke infusion to produce delicious results. Careful temperature monitoring and timing are key factors that contribute to perfectly cooked, flavorful chicken quarters every time.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.