“Juicy Whole Smoked Chicken Recipe on a Pellet Grill: Perfect for BBQ Lovers!”

How to Smoke Juicy Chicken with Crispy Skin on a Pellet Grill

Smoking a whole chicken on a pellet grill can seem daunting, but with the right technique, you can achieve tender, juicy meat and perfectly crispy skin. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will make you a hit at your next barbecue!

The Benefits of Using a Pellet Grill

Pellet grills offer a unique combination of smoking and grilling:

• Temperature Control: Maintaining a consistent temperature is easier.
• Flavor Infusion: The wood pellets release aromatic smoke that enhances the flavor of your chicken.
• Versatility: You can smoke, grill, or bake with a pellet grill.

Preparing Your Chicken

Ingredients

Before you get started, gather the following ingredients:

• Whole Chicken: 4 to 5 pounds
• Chicken Rub: You can make your own or purchase a pre-made option.
• Olive Oil or Butter: For crispy skin and rich flavor.
• Wood Pellets: Choose your favorite flavor, such as hickory or applewood.

Steps to Prepare:

1. Thaw the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is completely thawed if frozen.
2. Remove the Giblets: Check inside the cavity for giblets and remove them.
3. Pat Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly dry the chicken; this will help crisp the skin.
4. Apply Oil: Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil or melted butter. This is key for achieving a crispy skin.
5. Season Generously: Apply your chosen chicken rub, making sure to season both the outside and inside of the chicken.

Smoking the Chicken

Setting Up the Pellet Grill

1. Preheat: Set your pellet grill to 225°F (107°C). Preheat for about 15-20 minutes.
2. Select Wood Pellets: Use a flavor of wood pellets that complements chicken; fruit woods like apple or cherry are excellent choices.

Smoking Process

1. Place the Chicken on the Grill: Position the chicken breast side up.
2. Monitor the Temperature: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 3-4 hours depending on the size of the chicken.
3. Optional Basting: If you desire, baste the chicken with your oil or butter mixture every hour to enhance the flavor and moisture.

Achieving Crispy Skin

To get that crispy skin, follow these tips:

• Increase Temperature: When the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C), increase the grill temperature to 400°F (204°C) for the last 30 minutes. This will help crisp up the skin.
• Use a Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential to ensure the chicken is cooked perfectly without compromising its juiciness.

Resting and Serving

Once your chicken reaches the optimal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that every bite is tender and moist.

Key Takeaways

• Preparation is Key: Properly season and dry your chicken for the best results.
• Control Your Temperature: Consistent heat is crucial in smoking. Use a thermometer to monitor both the grill and the chicken.
• Finish Strong: Crank up the heat at the end to get that delicious crispy skin.

Connect with Smoked BBQ Source

Explore more barbecue techniques and recipes on the Smoked BBQ Source website. Follow them on social media for daily inspiration and pro tips!

• Instagram
• Pinterest
• Facebook

With this guide, you’re well on your way to becoming a backyard BBQ master! Happy smoking!

source

Struggling to Choose the Right Borniak Smoker? Let Us Help!

Not sure whether to go for a Borniak BBQ Smoker or a Classic Model? We’ve got you covered! In our latest guide, we break down the differences between each model and help you pick the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re a BBQ enthusiast or a traditional smoking fan, there’s a Borniak Smoker just for you.

👉 Read our full guide here: Which Borniak Smoker should you buy in 2025 – buyer’s guide.

Living in England? Great news! We stock Borniak Smokers at our Poole warehouse, and we offer free shipping across England when you order through Smokehouse.Guru.

Plus, enjoy exclusive perks like a 2-year warranty, a VAT invoice, and free gifts with every Borniak Smoker purchase. Don’t miss out – upgrade your smoking game today!