How To Smoke Chicken With A Gas Grill

Smoking Chicken With a Gas Grill: A Delicious and Easy Method

Smoking chicken with a gas grill is a fantastic way to infuse delicious smoky flavor into your poultry while keeping it juicy and tender. If you’re new to smoking meats, don’t worry – it’s easier than you might think. With the right equipment and a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying mouthwatering smoked chicken in no time.

Preparation and Equipment

Before you start smoking your chicken, it’s important to gather the necessary equipment and prepare the bird for smoking. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Gas grill with a built-in smoker box or a smoker box attachment
• Quality hardwood chips, such as hickory, apple, or cherry
• Whole chicken, rinsed and patted dry
• Seasonings of your choice (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, etc.)
• Meat thermometer

Preparing the Chicken

Once you have your equipment and ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare the chicken for smoking. Start by seasoning the chicken with your chosen spices, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Setting Up the Gas Grill

Now it’s time to get your gas grill ready for smoking. If your grill has a built-in smoker box, simply fill it with the hardwood chips of your choice. If not, you can use a smoker box attachment. Preheat your grill to a temperature of around 225-250°F (107-121°C).

Smoking the Chicken

Once your grill is preheated and the smoker box is filled with wood chips, it’s time to place the chicken on the grill. If your grill has multiple burners, only turn on one side to create an indirect heat zone. This will allow the chicken to cook slowly and absorb the smoky flavor without being directly over the heat source.

Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), as measured with a meat thermometer. This will typically take around 2-3 hours, depending on the size of the bird. Remember to periodically check and replenish the wood chips to maintain a steady flow of smoke.

Resting and Serving

Once the chicken has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bird. After resting, carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

Smoking chicken with a gas grill is a wonderful way to elevate the flavor of this versatile meat. With a bit of patience and the right technique, you can achieve succulent, smoky chicken that will have your friends and family coming back for more. So, fire up your gas grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the delicious rewards of smoking chicken at home.