How To Grill Bone In Chicken On Treager

Grilling bone-in chicken on a Traeger grill is a fantastic way to infuse rich, smoky flavors into the meat while ensuring it stays juicy and tender. Whether you're a seasoned grill master or a novice cook, mastering the art of grilling bone-in chicken on a Traeger can elevate your outdoor cooking game. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfectly grilled bone-in chicken every time.

Choosing the Right Chicken

Before you start grilling, it’s essential to select the right cut of chicken. Opt for bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces such as thighs, drumsticks, or split breasts. The bone-in cuts are ideal for grilling as they retain moisture and flavor, resulting in succulent, juicy meat.

Preparing the Chicken

Once you’ve chosen your chicken pieces, it’s time to prepare them for the grill. Start by patting the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps up during grilling. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper, and consider adding other seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs for extra flavor.

Preheating the Traeger Grill

Preheat your Traeger grill to a temperature of around 375°F (190°C). Traeger grills are known for their wood-fired flavor, so select your preferred wood pellets to infuse the chicken with a smoky aroma. Hickory, apple, or mesquite pellets are popular choices that pair well with chicken.

Grilling the Chicken

Once the grill is preheated, place the seasoned chicken pieces directly onto the grill grates. Close the lid and let the chicken cook for approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on the cut and size of the pieces. It’s crucial to monitor the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Adding Flavor with Wood Pellets

To enhance the smoky flavor of the chicken, consider adding wood pellets during the grilling process. Simply add a handful of wood pellets directly to the firebox or pellet hopper to intensify the smokiness. This step can elevate the overall flavor profile of the grilled chicken.

Resting and Serving

Once the chicken reaches the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Allowing the chicken to rest helps redistribute the juices, ensuring a moist and flavorful end result. After resting, it’s time to serve the grilled bone-in chicken. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon for a vibrant finish.

Cleaning the Grill

After enjoying your delicious grilled chicken, it’s important to clean your Traeger grill. Allow the grill to cool down, then remove the grates and clean them with a grill brush. Empty the grease bucket and ash from the firepot to keep your grill in top condition for future use.

Conclusion

Grilling bone-in chicken on a Traeger grill is a rewarding experience that yields flavorful and succulent results. By following these steps and mastering the art of grilling chicken, you can impress your family and friends with mouthwatering dishes hot off the grill. With the right cuts of chicken, proper seasoning, and attention to grill temperature, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Traeger grill master.

So, fire up your Traeger grill, grab your favorite chicken pieces, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of perfectly grilled bone-in chicken.