Smoked Bbq Chicken

Here’s a straightforward and delicious Smoked BBQ Chicken recipe for you! Perfect for a backyard smoker or a grill with a smoker box.

Smoked BBQ Chicken Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs), or chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, breasts)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

• 2 tbsp paprika (smoked paprika if you have it)

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tbsp onion powder

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Your favorite BBQ sauce (for glazing at the end)

Instructions:

1. Prep the chicken:

   • Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.

   • Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the chicken to help the rub stick.

2. Make the dry rub:

   • In a bowl, mix paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.

3. Apply the rub:

   • Generously coat the chicken inside and out with the dry rub. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

4. Prepare the smoker:

   • Preheat your smoker to about 225-250°F (107-121°C).

   • Use wood chips like hickory, apple, or cherry for great flavor.

5. Smoke the chicken:

   • Place the chicken on the smoker grate, breast side up.

   • Smoke until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This usually takes about 3-4 hours for a whole chicken, less for pieces.

   • About 20-30 minutes before done, brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the chicken to create a nice glaze.

6. Rest and serve:

   • Remove the chicken and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

   • Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips:

• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

• You can brine the chicken beforehand for juicier meat if you want.

• Chicken pieces will cook faster than whole chicken, so adjust time accordingly.