Smoking chicken infuses it with a rich, smoky flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Whether you have a smoker, grill, or even a stovetop smoker, these recipes will guide you to create delicious smoked chicken dishes that are perfect for any occasion. Here are some smoked chicken recipes to inspire your next culinary adventure.
1. Classic Smoked Whole Chicken
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Rinse the chicken inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat and tuck the wings under the bird.
- Apply the Rub: In a small bowl, combine the salt, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Rub the chicken with olive oil, then apply the spice mixture evenly over the entire bird.
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). Use wood chips such as hickory, apple, or cherry for a nice smoky flavor.
- Smoke the Chicken: Place the chicken breast side up on the smoker grate. Smoke the chicken for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. Serve hot.