How To Cook Spatchcock Chicken On Pellet Grill

Mastering the Art of Spatchcock Chicken on a Pellet Grill

Are you craving a mouthwatering and succulent chicken dish? Look no further! In this guide, we will unveil the secrets to perfectly cooked spatchcock chicken on a pellet grill.

Spatchcocking, also known as butterflying, is a fantastic technique for achieving even cooking and juicier meat. By removing the backbone and flattening the bird, the heat is evenly distributed, resulting in a quick and thorough cook. Combined with the smoky flavors of a pellet grill, you’re in for a culinary delight!

Let’s Get Started!

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s gather the key ingredients and tools:

• A whole chicken
• Salt and pepper
• Your favorite seasoning rub
• Quality hardwood pellets
• A pellet grill
• Instant-read thermometer

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by rinsing the chicken thoroughly under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Place the bird breast-side down on a cutting board.

Step 2: Spatchcocking the Chicken

Using sharp kitchen shears or poultry shears, cut along one side of the backbone from the tail to the neck. Repeat on the other side to completely remove the backbone. Set aside or save it for making delicious chicken stock!

Next, flip the chicken over and firmly press down on the breastbone until you hear a slight crack. This will help flatten the bird for even cooking. Tuck the wingtips behind the breasts to prevent them from burning during grilling.

Step 3: Seasoning and Flavoring

Now, it’s time to add flavor to your spatchcock chicken. Generously season both sides of the bird with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasoning rub. This could be a zesty BBQ rub, a savory herb blend, or a tantalizing spice mix. Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations!

Step 4: Preparing the Grill

Fire up your pellet grill and set the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Add your preferred hardwood pellets, such as hickory, mesquite, or apple, to infuse the chicken with enticing smoky flavors. Close the lid and allow the grill to preheat for about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Grilling the Spatchcock Chicken

Place the seasoned spatchcock chicken skin-side up on the grill grates. Close the lid and let the magic happen! Cook the chicken for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked with an instant-read thermometer.

To achieve a beautiful crispy skin, you can increase the temperature to 425°F (218°C) during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Keep a watchful eye to avoid any potential flare-ups.

Step 6: Letting it Rest and Serve

Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to let the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and succulent bite.

Now it’s time to carve and serve! Cut the spatchcock chicken into portions by separating the thighs, wings, and breasts. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a refreshing garden salad.

Enjoy Every Bite!

You’ve now mastered the art of cooking spatchcock chicken on a pellet grill. With its even cooking and heightened flavors, your chicken will be a showstopper at any gathering or weeknight dinner. So fire up the grill, savor the enticing aromas, and enjoy every bite of this delectable dish!