When you shop through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. This educational content is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice.

Best Wood Chips For Smoking (2024 Update)

If you're looking for the best wood chips for smoking, there are several factors to consider before making your purchase. First of all, you'll want to think about what type of wood you prefer for your smoking needs. Some people prefer stronger, more flavorful woods like mesquite or hickory, while others prefer milder options like apple or cherry wood. You may also want to consider the size of the wood chips, as larger chips may take longer to smoke and provide a stronger flavor.

Another important factor to consider is the quality of the wood chips. Look for options that are made from high-quality, all-natural wood with no added chemicals or preservatives. This will ensure that you get a pure, authentic flavor from your smoking process.

Some questions to consider when making your choice might include: What types of meat or food items do you plan on smoking? Do you prefer a stronger or milder flavor? How experienced are you with smoking and what types of wood have you used in the past? By thinking through these factors and doing your research, you can find the best wood chips for smoking to suit your specific needs and preferences.

10 Best Wood Chips For Smoking

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for adding a smoky flavor to grilled foods.
2
This product is ideal for adding natural mesquite flavor to smoked foods and makes a great gift for men and women.
3
The product is ideal for adding smoky flavor to grilled or smoked foods.
4
Ideal for enhancing the smoky flavor of grilled meats and vegetables on a barbecue grill.
5
It is an indoor/outdoor smoker box gift set that can be used on stovetops or BBQ grills and includes wood chip pints and a recipe guide, making it a great Father's Day or grilling gift for men.
6
It is ideal for adding rich, smoky flavor to grilled or smoked meats and vegetables.
7
This product is ideal for adding different flavors to various types of meat when smoking or barbecuing.
8
The product is ideal for adding a smoky flavor to various recipes when used in a smoker or grill.
9
Ideal for adding a smoky flavor to meat and vegetables when grilling or smoking.
10
Ideal for adding smoky flavor to grilled meat, fish, and vegetables on charcoal or gas grills.
The product is ideal for adding a smoky flavor to grilled foods.
This product is ideal for adding natural mesquite flavor to smoked foods and makes a great gift for men and women.
The product is ideal for adding smoky flavor to grilled or smoked foods.
Ideal for enhancing the smoky flavor of grilled meats and vegetables on a barbecue grill.
It is an indoor/outdoor smoker box gift set that can be used on stovetops or BBQ grills and includes wood chip pints and a recipe guide, making it a great Father's Day or grilling gift for men.
It is ideal for adding rich, smoky flavor to grilled or smoked meats and vegetables.
This product is ideal for adding different flavors to various types of meat when smoking or barbecuing.
The product is ideal for adding a smoky flavor to various recipes when used in a smoker or grill.
Ideal for adding a smoky flavor to meat and vegetables when grilling or smoking.
Ideal for adding smoky flavor to grilled meat, fish, and vegetables on charcoal or gas grills.

1. Weber Cherry Wood Chips, 2 Lb.

Introducing the Cherry Wood Chips, a must-have for any grilling enthusiast who loves to experiment with flavors. These wood chips offer a subtle fruity aroma and flavor that perfectly complements fish, poultry, pork, and vegetables.

Each bag of Cherry Wood Chips contains 192 cubic inches (0.003 m^3) of premium quality, all-natural wood chips that have been carefully selected and processed to ensure consistent size and moisture level. These chips are made from 100% cherry wood, which means you can expect a pure and authentic flavor every time.

The Cherry Wood Chips are perfect for use with a variety of grilling equipment, including charcoal and gas grills, smokers, and electric smokers. Simply add the chips to your smoker box or directly on the coals, and let the wood smoke work its magic.

Not only do these Cherry Wood Chips add a unique and delicious flavor to your grilled dishes, but they also create a beautiful visual effect with their natural reddish-brown color. Plus, they are easy to store and transport in the convenient sized bag.

2. Mesquite Smoke Chips – Premium 2lbs

Introducing the Premium Wood Chips, made from 100% natural wood that burns evenly and cleanly, leaving your meats with a mouth-watering flavor that you can't find anywhere else. With these wood chips, you can easily take your grilling and smoking game to the next level and achieve professional-level results.

Whether you are using a charcoal grill or smoker, these wood chips are perfect for all types of grills and smokers. They ignite quickly without the use of any chemicals, so you can infuse your meats with a subtle depth of flavor that only natural wood can provide.

These wood chips are made of all-natural wood without any bark or fillers, ensuring that you get the best results possible. Plus, they are incredibly easy to use. Simply soak the chips in water for 30 minutes, drain the excess water, and add them to your grill. You can put the wood chips on top of your charcoal, in a smoker box, or in a covered foil pan with poke holes away from flames or on the side of the grill.

At Fire & Flavor, we are passionate about providing naturally delicious, ingeniously convenient, and truly unique cooking solutions. Our Premium Wood Chips are no exception. From the fire to the flavor, we help you create mouth-watering results that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

3. Jack Daniels 01749 Wood Lewef Bbq Smoking Chips, 2.94 L (5 Pack)

This product is made from the white oak aging barrels of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, which are renowned for their exceptional quality. These 1" x 1" sized chips are perfect for adding that desirable whiskey flavor to your grilling or smoking experience. With a generous 180 Cu. In capacity, this product offers ample wood chips for your cooking needs.

Made in the USA, these wood chips are of the highest quality and are carefully crafted to ensure a consistent and authentic flavor. The rich and robust aroma of the whiskey-infused smoke will create a mouth-watering culinary experience that your guests will love.

These wood chips are perfect for use with a variety of cooking methods, including gas and charcoal grills, smokers, and even outdoor ovens. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, these wood chips are easy to use and will elevate your cooking to the next level.

4. Jack Daniels 01749 Wood Bbq Smoking Chips (2 Pack)

Introducing the SMOKING OAK WOOD CHIPS, a premium quality product perfect for charcoal, gas, or electric grills, as well as personal and large scale smokers. Each pack contains 180 cubic inches of wood chips, providing ample supply for multiple grilling sessions.

These chips are crafted from real Jack Daniel's Old No. 7 Brand whiskey barrels, ensuring an authentic and delicious flavor. The aging process of the barrels infuses the wood with complex flavors that are unique to this product.

The SMOKING OAK WOOD CHIPS emit a mouth-watering combo of whiskey and oak wood smoke, creating a unique and delectable taste profile. These chips pair perfectly with a variety of foods, making them a versatile option for any grilling enthusiast. Whether you're making ribs, wings, whole chicken, beef sirloin, fish, brisket, pork loin, or any other dish, these wood chips will take your cooking to the next level.

Not only are these chips top quality, they are also American made, ensuring that you are supporting local businesses with your purchase.

5. Original Stovetop Smoker Gift Set – Oak, Apple, Hickory

The Camerons Original Stovetop Smoker is an innovative kitchen tool that allows users to enjoy delicious smoked meals in the comfort of their own home. The package includes the stainless steel stovetop smoker, a stick-free rack, drip pan, lid, recipe guide, and bonus apple, alder, and hickory smoking wood pints. With a size of 11” x 15” x 3.5”, this smoker can be used both indoors and outdoors and is compatible with any heat source, including gas, electric, campfire, or barbecue grill.

This versatile smoker doubles as a steamer, poacher, or roasting pan, making it the perfect addition to any kitchen or grill. The smoking box is designed to keep food moist while smoking, and the lid keeps smoke inside to infuse food with rich wood flavors. Users can smoke meat, fish, vegetables, and more right on the stovetop or BBQ with ease.

Using the Camerons Stovetop Smoker is a breeze. Simply line the tray with any flavor of Camerons Fine Smoking Chips, add ingredients to the cook rack, and place it over heat for a perfectly smoked meal. The smoker is designed to be easy to clean, with dishwasher-safe components. When not in use, all parts nest inside the smoker, and handles can fold away for easy storage.

This stovetop smoker is a great gift idea for men, Father's Day, birthdays, holidays, or any BBQ lover in your life. With its durable construction, easy-to-use design, and ability to smoke a variety of foods, the Camerons Stovetop Smoker is a must-have for any home chef or grill master.

6. Smokin' Trio Variety Bundle – Western Bbq Flavors

This set includes three bags of smoking chips, each featuring a unique and popular flavor – Apple, Hickory, and Mesquite. Whether you prefer a sweet and fruity taste, a bold and smoky flavor, or a more intense and robust profile, these chips have got you covered.

Compatible with gas, electric, or charcoal grills, these smoking chips are incredibly versatile and can be used with a variety of cooking appliances. No matter what your preferred method of grilling or smoking is, these chips will deliver exceptional results every time.

Each bag contains 180 cubic inches of chips, providing ample supply for multiple smoking sessions. These chips are made in the USA, ensuring quality and consistency in every bag.

Enhance the flavor of your grilled meats, seafood, vegetables, and more with these premium smoking chips. With this set, you'll have everything you need to achieve that perfectly smoked and flavorful dish that everyone will love.

7. Wood Chip Variety Pack – Bbq's Best!

This package of wood chips is a must-have for any grill enthusiast who wants to elevate their outdoor cooking game. With four of the most popular flavors included in each bag – Apple, Mesquite, Hickory, and Cherry – this product is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.

Each bag contains a generous 180 cubic inches of chips, providing ample fuel for your grill and ensuring that you can cook up a storm without worrying about running out of wood chips midway through your cookout. Whether you're using an electric or gas grill, these chips are compatible with both types of grills, making them a versatile addition to your cooking arsenal.

With this package, you can easily try out new flavors or conveniently replenish your old favorites. The wood chips are made in the USA, ensuring that you're getting a high-quality product that is both safe and reliable.

8. Maclean's Outdoor Hickory Wood Bbq Smoking Chips

Looking for a way to add a unique and authentic flavor to your grilled or smoked dishes? Look no further than these Authentic Hickory Wood Smoking Chips! Made from genuine hickory wood, these chips are the perfect way to infuse your food with a rich, smoky flavor that is sure to impress.

Whether you're using a gas grill or a charcoal smoker, these chips are easy to use and provide a consistent smoke that will enhance the flavor of your meats, vegetables, and more. And with their low calorie content, you can enjoy the delicious smoky flavor without having to rely on heavy sauces or marinades.

So why wait? Add these Authentic Hickory Wood Smoking Chips to your next grilling or smoking session and experience the unique flavor and aroma that only hickory wood can provide!

9. Oklahoma Joe's Cherry Wood Smoker Chips, 1 Pack

Oklahoma Joe's cherry wood chips are a great choice for enhancing the flavor of meats, such as fish, pork, or poultry, with a mild fruity taste. These wood chips are a perfect complement to smokers, electric, gas, or charcoal grills, making them an excellent choice for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. With their all-natural composition, you can feel good about using them to add just the right amount of flavor to your favorite dishes.

These cherry wood chips are ideal for smoking fish, poultry, and pork, giving your meats a subtle and sweet taste that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. They are made from high-quality natural wood chips, ensuring that you get the best flavor possible. Each bag of Oklahoma Joe's cherry wood chips measures 179 cubic inches, making them a great value for the price.

Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, Oklahoma Joe's cherry wood chips are an excellent choice for adding flavor to your meats. You can use them in a variety of cooking methods, including smoking, grilling, and roasting, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different flavors and recipes. With their all-natural composition, you can be confident that you're using a safe and effective product that will enhance the flavor of your meats and make your cooking experience more enjoyable.

10. Weber Hickory Wood Chunks, 350 Cubic Inch (0.006 Cubic Meter), 4 Lb

Introducing the premium quality Hickory Wood Chunks, the ultimate solution for enhancing your grilling experience! These chunks are sourced from high-quality hickory wood, which is renowned for its rich and subtly sweet flavor, making it the perfect choice for poultry, pork, and beef.

Each bag of Hickory Wood Chunks is generously sized at 350 cu. in. (0.006 m^3), providing ample chunks to last for several grilling sessions. The chunks are meticulously selected and cut to ensure consistent size and shape, allowing for even heat distribution and optimal smoke infusion.

Whether you are a seasoned grilling enthusiast or a novice, these hickory wood chunks are easy to use and will add that perfect smoky flavor to your dishes. Simply add a few chunks to your grill or smoker, and let the wood work its magic.

The Hickory Wood Chunks are ideal for use with a variety of meats, including poultry, pork, and beef, and can be used for both slow and fast cooking methods. The rich, subtle sweetness of hickory wood will impart a unique flavor profile to your dishes that will have your guests coming back for more.

Best Wood Chips For Smoking FAQs

Are there any types of wood chips that should be avoided for smoking?

Yes, there are certain types of wood chips that should be avoided for smoking. Firstly, you should avoid using softwoods such as pine, fir, spruce, and cedar. These woods contain a high amount of resin and can produce a bitter taste and harmful chemicals when burned.

You should also avoid using any wood that has been treated with chemicals or paints, as these can release toxic fumes when heated. Additionally, wood from any tree that is toxic or poisonous should not be used for smoking, such as oleander or poison oak.

It is recommended to use hardwoods such as oak, hickory, maple, and fruitwoods like apple, cherry, and peach. These woods produce a mild, sweet flavor and are safe for smoking.

To ensure the safety and quality of your smoked food, it is important to use only high-quality wood chips and avoid any types that may be harmful or produce an unpleasant taste.

Can you mix different types of wood chips for smoking?

Yes, it is possible to mix different types of wood chips for smoking. In fact, many experienced pitmasters use this technique to create unique and complex flavors in their smoked meats. However, it is important to keep in mind that the type of wood chips you use will greatly impact the flavor of your meat, so it's best to choose woods that complement each other.

For example, you might consider mixing fruitwoods like apple or cherry with hardwoods like hickory or oak to create a sweet and smoky flavor profile. Or, you could mix mesquite with pecan for a more robust, earthy flavor.

It's also important to note that some woods may be more dominant in flavor than others, so you may need to experiment with different ratios to find the perfect blend for your taste. Ultimately, the key is to have fun and be creative with your wood chip combinations while keeping in mind the overall flavor profile you want to achieve.

Can you use fruitwood chips for smoking?

Yes, fruitwood chips can be used for smoking. Fruitwoods such as apple, cherry, peach, and pear are popular choices for smoking as they impart a sweet, mild flavor to the meat. Fruitwood chips are often used to smoke poultry, pork, and fish but can be used for beef and lamb as well. When using fruitwood chips for smoking, it is important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This will prevent the chips from burning too quickly and will allow them to smolder, producing smoke that will flavor the meat. It is also important to control the temperature of the smoker and to monitor the smoke to ensure that the meat is not over-smoked. Overall, fruitwood chips can be a great addition to your smoking arsenal and can add a delicious flavor to your smoked meats.

How do different types of wood chips affect the flavor of smoked food?

The type of wood chips used in smoking can significantly impact the flavor of the food being smoked. Different types of wood chips have different levels of density, flavor intensity, and smoke production. For example, mesquite wood chips are known for their strong and intense flavor, making them well-suited for bold meats like beef or lamb. On the other hand, fruitwood chips like apple or cherry have a lighter and sweeter flavor, which pairs well with poultry, fish, and vegetables.

It's important to note that the wood chips should be properly seasoned and free of mold or rot before use. Additionally, soaking the wood chips in water or other liquids can alter their flavor and smoke production.

Ultimately, the choice of wood chips depends on personal preference and the type of food being smoked. Experimenting with different types of wood chips can lead to discovering unique and delicious flavor combinations.

How do you know when it's time to add more wood chips to the smoker?

Knowing when to add more wood chips to your smoker is essential if you want to achieve the perfect smoky flavor in your food. The best way to tell when it's time to add more wood chips is by monitoring the smoke coming out of your smoker. When the smoke starts to thin out or turn blue, it's a sign that the wood chips have burned down and it's time to add more.

Another way to tell is by checking the temperature inside your smoker. If the temperature starts to drop, it could be a sign that your wood chips have burned down and need to be replaced. Adding more wood chips will help maintain the temperature and keep the smoke flowing.

It's also important to keep an eye on the color of your food. If your food isn't getting the smoky flavor you desire, it might be time to add more wood chips. Remember to add small amounts of wood chips at a time to avoid over-smoking your food.

In summary, monitoring the smoke, temperature, and color of your food are all good indicators of when it's time to add more wood chips to your smoker.

How long do wood chips need to soak before using them for smoking?

Before using wood chips for smoking, it is essential to soak them in water for a certain period of time to prevent them from burning up too quickly. Generally, wood chips should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before using them for smoking. This allows the wood chips to absorb water and produce more smoke, resulting in a better flavor. However, some experienced smokers prefer to soak the wood chips for longer periods of time, even overnight, to maximize the flavor and smoke output. It's important to note that soaking wood chips for too long can cause them to become waterlogged, which can reduce the smoke output and make it difficult to maintain a consistent temperature. So, it's recommended to experiment with different soaking times to find the perfect balance for your smoking needs.

What are the best types of wood chips for smoking meat?

When it comes to smoking meat, the type of wood chips you use can have a significant impact on the flavor of your final product. Some of the best types of wood chips for smoking meat include hickory, mesquite, apple, cherry, and oak.

Hickory is a popular choice for smoking meats like pork, beef, and poultry due to its strong, smoky flavor. Mesquite is also a common choice and is particularly well-suited for beef and game meats due to its bold, intense flavor.

Apple and cherry wood chips are milder and sweeter, making them a great choice for smoking lighter meats like chicken or fish. Oak wood chips, on the other hand, are a versatile option that can be used to smoke a wide range of meats due to their mild, yet distinct flavor.

Ultimately, the best type of wood chips for smoking meat will depend on your personal preferences and the type of meat you are smoking. Experiment with different types of wood chips to find the perfect flavor for your next smoked meat dish.

What are the best wood chips for smoking fish?

When it comes to smoking fish, there are several wood chips that work well and can add a unique flavor to the fish. The most popular wood chips used for smoking fish are alder, apple, cherry, and hickory.

Alder wood chips are a traditional choice for smoking fish. They have a mild flavor that doesn't overpower the fish. Alder wood chips work well with delicate fish like trout, salmon, and whitefish.

Apple wood chips are another great choice for smoking fish. They have a sweet and fruity flavor that works well with fatty fish like salmon and trout. Apple wood chips also add a beautiful color to the fish.

Cherry wood chips have a sweet and mild flavor that complements the flavor of fish. They work well with most types of fish and add a beautiful reddish color to the meat.

Hickory wood chips have a strong and smoky flavor that works well with oily fish like salmon and mackerel. However, it's important to use hickory wood chips sparingly as the strong flavor can easily overpower the fish.

Overall, it's important to choose wood chips that complement the flavor of the fish you're smoking. Experiment with different types of wood chips to find the perfect combination for your taste buds.

What are the best wood chips for smoking poultry?

When it comes to smoking poultry, choosing the right wood chips is crucial to achieve the desired flavor and aroma. Some of the best wood chips for smoking poultry include hickory, apple, cherry, and pecan.

Hickory wood chips are known for their strong and bold flavor, which pairs well with chicken and turkey. Apple wood chips, on the other hand, offer a sweeter and milder flavor that complements the natural taste of poultry. Cherry wood chips add a subtle fruity flavor to the meat and give it a beautiful reddish color. Pecan wood chips provide a nutty and rich flavor that works well with all kinds of poultry.

It's important to note that the amount of wood chips used and the smoking time also affect the final outcome. Too much smoke can overpower the meat, while too little smoke can leave it bland. It's best to experiment with different wood chips and smoking techniques to find the perfect balance and achieve the desired flavor for your smoked poultry.

What is the difference between wood chips and wood chunks for smoking?

When it comes to smoking meat or fish, wood is an essential component for adding flavor. Wood chips and wood chunks are two common options for smoking, but they differ in size and burn time.

Wood chips are small, thin pieces of wood that burn quickly. They are ideal for shorter smoking sessions, such as when smoking fish or poultry. Wood chips also work well for gas or electric smokers, as they ignite easily and produce smoke quickly.

On the other hand, wood chunks are larger pieces of wood that burn slower and produce smoke for a longer period. They are perfect for smoking larger cuts of meat, such as brisket or pork shoulder, that require longer cooking times. Wood chunks also work well for charcoal smokers, as they burn slowly and produce consistent smoke.

Ultimately, the choice between wood chips and wood chunks depends on the type of meat being smoked, the cooking time, and the type of smoker being used. It is recommended to experiment with both options to find the perfect match for your smoking needs.