By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

BBQ smoker producing aromatic smoke

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Quick Answer

A comprehensive reference for smoking times across all meats. Brisket: 10-14 hours.

How Long to Smoke Meat

A comprehensive reference for smoking times across all meats. Brisket: 10-14 hours. Pork shoulder: 10-14 hours. Ribs: 5-6 hours. Chicken: 2-4 hours. The rule: cook to temperature, not to time. A thermometer is your most important tool.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is how long to smoke meat?

A comprehensive reference for smoking times across all meats. Brisket: 10-14 hours. Pork shoulder: 10-14 hours.

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Sources & References

1
AmazingRibs.com
The science of BBQ — temperature guides, techniques, and recipes backed by food science.
Reference
2
How to BBQ Right (YouTube)
Malcom Reed's championship-winning BBQ techniques and tutorials.
Video
3
Mad Scientist BBQ (YouTube)
Jeremy Yoder's detailed BBQ experiments and science-based cooking methods.
Video
4
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Official Australian food safety guidelines and safe cooking temperatures.
Government