Description
Smoked Whole Chicken Dinner is a rustic and flavorful centerpiece featuring a whole chicken slow-smoked to perfection. Juicy on the inside with crispy, golden skin and infused with wood-fired flavor, it’s an impressive yet simple dish ideal for family meals, holidays, or backyard gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds), giblets removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary (optional)
- 2 tablespoons BBQ rub (optional)
- Wood chips or pellets (applewood, cherry, or hickory recommended)
Instructions
- Preheat smoker to 225–250°F (107–121°C). Prepare your wood chips or pellets.
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub with olive oil or melted butter.
- Season chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, herbs, and optional BBQ rub.
- Tie legs with kitchen twine and tuck wing tips under the body.
- Place chicken breast-side up on smoker rack or roasting pan.
- Smoke for 3.5 to 4 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thigh.
- Optional: Increase heat to 375°F (190°C) during the final 20 minutes for crispier skin.
- Remove chicken and let rest 10–15 minutes before carving.
Notes
- Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps retain juices.
- Use a digital meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Stuff the cavity with lemon, garlic, or herbs for extra aroma.
- Brining beforehand enhances flavor and moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of chicken
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: undefined
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
