Smoked Chicken With Cheddar/Beer Sauce Over Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients

• 3 pounds of boneless chicken thighs
• 2 tsp salt, divided
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp paprika
• 5 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 fat slices of onion, diced
• 2 lbs red baby potatoes
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 to 3/4 cup beer
• 1 cup light cream or milk, divided
• chives for garnish