How To Smoke Chicken On An 18-Inch Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker

Smoking Chicken on an 18-Inch Weber Smokey Mountain Smoker

Smoking chicken on an 18-inch Weber Smokey Mountain smoker is a delicious way to infuse your bird with a rich, smoky flavor. With the right techniques and a little bit of patience, you can achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful smoked chicken that will have your friends and family coming back for more.

Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to smoking chicken, it’s essential to start with a high-quality bird. Look for a fresh, plump, and preferably organic chicken from your local butcher or grocery store. A 3-4 pound whole chicken is perfect for smoking on an 18-inch Weber Smokey Mountain smoker.

Preparing the Chicken

Before you start smoking the chicken, it’s important to prepare it properly. Begin by rinsing the chicken under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Next, season the chicken generously with your favorite dry rub or marinade. Make sure to season both the exterior and the cavity of the chicken for maximum flavor.

Setting Up the Smoker

Now it’s time to prepare your 18-inch Weber Smokey Mountain smoker for the chicken. Start by filling the charcoal ring with charcoal briquettes and adding a few chunks of your favorite smoking wood, such as hickory or apple. Light the charcoal using a chimney starter and wait for it to ash over before assembling the smoker.

Once the charcoal is ready, fill the water pan with hot water and assemble the smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Adjust the bottom vents to achieve a temperature of around 225-250°F, which is ideal for smoking chicken.

Smoking the Chicken

When the smoker has reached the desired temperature, it’s time to place the seasoned chicken on the cooking grate. Position the chicken with the legs facing the heat source for even cooking. Close the lid and let the chicken smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the meat.

Adding Flavor

To enhance the smoky flavor of the chicken, consider adding a handful of soaked wood chips to the charcoal every hour during the smoking process. This will create a continuous infusion of smoky flavor that will permeate the chicken and give it that irresistible barbecue taste.

Resting and Serving

Once the chicken has reached the desired internal temperature, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird. Carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides and sauces for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress.

Smoking chicken on an 18-inch Weber Smokey Mountain smoker is a rewarding and delicious experience that yields tender, juicy, and flavorful results. With the right techniques and a little bit of practice, you can become a master of smoked chicken and delight your friends and family with your barbecue prowess.