Whole Smoked Chicken Recipe

Smoked chicken seems intimidating, I get it, but one of my favorite ways to cook chicken is to smoke it.

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword chicken, smoked chicken

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Brining Time 8

Total Time 5 10

Servings servings

Calories 585kcal

Author Dana at ThisSillyGirlsKitchen.com

In a large stockpot over high heat, add the water, salt, and honey. Stir to combine, cook just until the honey and salt are fully dissolved.
3 quarts water, 1/2 cup kosher salt, 1 cup honey
Take off the heat and add the ice cubes. Stir until melted.
2 quarts ice cubes
If the pot is large enough to hold the chicken, place the whole chicken directly into the pot with the brine. If it is not large enough, transfer the brine to a large container and add the chicken.
5 pound whole chicken
Cover, and let sit in the refrigerator overnight.
Before smoking, prepare your smoker per the manufacturer’s instructions and preheat to 225°F.
Take the chicken out of the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Sprinkle the rub all over the outside of the chicken and rub it into the skin.
3 tablespoons bbq rub
Stuff the cavity with the lemon, garlic, onions, and thyme.
1/2 lemon, 1 head garlic, 1/2 white onion, 20 thyme sprigs
Tie the legs together with twine and place directly onto the grill of the smoker.
Close the lid and smoke until the internal temperature when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the breast reaches 160°F. Take the chicken off the smoker and let rest for 15 minutes before carving.

*granulated sugar or brown sugar works too.

Pat the Chicken Dry: Before applying the rub, pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes crispy skin.
Room Temperature: Let the chicken sit at room temperature for a bit before smoking.
Choose Your Smoker Wisely: Whether it’s a pellet grill, charcoal smoker, or something else, pick the type of smoker you’re comfortable using.
Don’t Rush the Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken rest for at least 15 minutes on a cutting board.
Experiment with Wood Chips: Try different wood chips like apple, cherry, or hickory.
Check with a Digital Thermometer: A digital thermometer or instant-read thermometer is key for best results.