How To Smoke Chicken On Traeger

Smoking Chicken on a Traeger Grill

Smoking chicken on a Traeger grill is a delicious way to enjoy tender and flavorful chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a beginner, smoking chicken on a Traeger is a great way to impress your friends and family with your culinary skills. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you smoke the perfect chicken on your Traeger grill.

Choose the Right Chicken

When smoking chicken on a Traeger grill, it’s important to start with high-quality chicken. Look for fresh, organic chicken that is free from added hormones and antibiotics. You can choose a whole chicken, chicken quarters, or specific cuts like thighs or drumsticks.

Prepare the Chicken

Before you start smoking, it’s essential to prepare the chicken. Begin by rinsing the chicken under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any excess moisture and ensures that the seasonings will adhere to the chicken.

Season the Chicken

Seasoning is key to infusing the chicken with delicious flavor. Create a dry rub using a combination of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including under the skin for maximum flavor. For an extra kick, you can also add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Preheat the Traeger Grill

Before you start smoking the chicken, preheat your Traeger grill to 225°F. This low and slow cooking method will help the chicken to become tender and juicy while absorbing the smoky flavor from the grill.

Smoke the Chicken

Once the grill is preheated, it’s time to smoke the chicken. Place the seasoned chicken directly on the grill grates and close the lid. Let the chicken smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can also add wood chips or pellets to the grill to enhance the smoky flavor.

Rest and Serve

After the chicken reaches the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken. Once rested, serve the smoked chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Conclusion

Smoking chicken on a Traeger grill is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can enjoy tender, flavorful smoked chicken that will impress your guests. So fire up your Traeger grill and get ready to savor the mouthwatering taste of smoked chicken!