I’ve discovered 11 quick, easy, and healthy Traeger recipes that make grilling a breeze. From grilled chicken breast marinated to perfection, to a delightful smoked chicken salad, there’s something for everyone. I love the spicy bison chili for a hearty meal, or the Traeger grilled shrimp tacos for a light, fresh option. Don’t forget the crowd-pleasing bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers and the savory kalbi beef short ribs. Each dish offers great flavor without a fuss. Stick around, and you’ll find even more delicious ways to amp up your Traeger cooking!
Grilled Chicken Breast
When it comes to grilling chicken breast, I love to start with a flavorful marinade to really enhance the taste.
I mix olive oil, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, then marinate in Traeger Sweet & Heat BBQ Sauce for a sweet and spicy kick. Grilling chicken should be done until the internal temperature reaches 160°F for safe consumption.
Preheating my Traeger to 500°F, I grill for about 25 minutes, flipping in the last few minutes for perfect results.
Smoked Chicken Salad
After enjoying a perfectly grilled chicken breast, I love to take the flavors to the next level with a delicious smoked chicken salad. I smoke the chicken at 250ºF, then mix it with light mayo, Greek yogurt, celery, and scallions. For an extra kick, I add Dijon mustard and hot sauce. To enhance the flavor, I also consider adding smoked garlic for an extra depth. Let it chill before serving on toasted buns or lettuce cups!
Traeger Beef Jerky
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of making my own beef jerky on the Traeger. I use top round or flank steak, marinating it in a mix of soy sauce, brown sugar, and spices overnight. After slicing against the grain and drying at 180°F for 4-5 hours, I’m left with delicious, homemade jerky that I store in sealed bags for weeks! The smoked beef jerky offers enhanced flavor compared to dehydrator or oven methods, making the effort truly worthwhile.
Spicy Bison Chili
Making beef jerky on the Traeger is a rewarding experience, but sometimes I crave something heartier. That’s when I whip up my Spicy Bison Chili. I brown 1 lb of ground bison with onions, bell peppers, and Anaheim chilis. Then, I add tomatoes, beans, and spices like chili powder and cumin. This dish is great because it allows for flexibility with meat; you can substitute bison with beef if desired. After simmering, I serve it with sour cream and tortilla chips.
Traeger Grilled Shrimp Tacos
When it comes to quick and delicious meals, Traeger Grilled Shrimp Tacos always hit the spot. I soak bamboo skewers for 30 minutes, season peeled shrimp with spices, and grill them until they’re perfectly pink. Grilled shrimp are a great source of protein, making these tacos not only tasty but also nutritious. I love using corn tortillas topped with fresh veggies, avocado, and a drizzle of Traeger Texas Spicy BBQ Sauce. It’s a flavorful feast that’s easy to prepare!
Smoked Cauliflower
Smoked cauliflower is a game-changer when it comes to healthy side dishes.
I love cutting a fresh head into thick steaks, seasoning them with olive oil, salt, and spices, then smoking them at 225°F for about 45 minutes. The result? Fork-tender, flavorful cauliflower that pairs perfectly with smoked meats. Cooking time is essential to achieving the ideal texture, as smoking for 60 minutes ensures it’s easily pierced with a fork. Top it with parmesan and parsley for an extra kick!
BBQ Smoked Chicken Thighs
Have you ever tried BBQ smoked chicken thighs that are both tender and bursting with flavor? I marinate bone-in thighs in a mix of olive oil, citrus juices, and spices for up to 12 hours. Then, I smoke them at low temperatures before searing for crispy skin. A little BBQ sauce at the end makes them irresistible. Trust me, you’ll love these! The final internal temperature should reach 165-180°F, ensuring that they are perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Bacon Wrapped Jalapeño Poppers
Bacon wrapped jalapeño poppers are a crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress at gatherings. I clean and prep jalapeños, mix cream cheese with cheddar and spices, then fill each pepper. Wrapping them in bacon adds a delicious layer. I smoke them on my Traeger until the bacon’s crispy and the cheese melts. These bite-sized delights always disappear fast! The combination of zesty and creamy flavors makes them even more irresistible.
Traeger Kalbi Beef Short Ribs
After enjoying those tasty bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers, it’s time to elevate your grilling game with Traeger Kalbi beef short ribs.
I mix soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and garlic for the marinade. Hickory pellets recommended for grilling add an extra layer of flavor to your ribs.
After marinating the ribs, I grill them at high heat for 2-4 minutes per side.
Serve them with rice and veggies for a delicious meal!
Twice Traeger Smoked Potatoes
When I’m in the mood for a hearty side dish, Twice Traeger Smoked Potatoes always hit the spot. I start by smoking large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes until tender. After cooling, I scoop out the insides and mix them with butter, cheese, and crispy bacon. This method ensures that the potatoes are not only tender but also infused with enhanced flavor from the smoking process. I refill the skins and return them to the grill for a delicious finish. Enjoy!
Traeger Grilled Buffalo Chicken Tenders
For a spicy and satisfying meal, Traeger Grilled Buffalo Chicken Tenders are a go-to in my kitchen. I season tenderloins with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne, then grill them for about 8 minutes, basting with a delicious buffalo sauce made from butter, hot sauce, and brown sugar. These tenders are perfect for salads or sandwiches, and leftovers stay fresh in the fridge! Additionally, basting during cooking enhances juiciness, ensuring a tender bite every time.
