These smoked chicken halves are a mouthwatering delight that combines the tenderness of slow-cooked meat with the aromatic flavors of wood smoke.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice, this recipe will guide you through preparing and smoking chicken halves to perfection. We’ll cover everything from cutting a whole chicken in half to achieving that coveted crispy skin. And explore the best woods to use.
Reasons why you should try smoked chicken halves.
Few meals can rival the deliciousness and versatility of smoked chicken halves. This cooking method produces tender, juicy meat with a rich, smoky flavor, and it is a great option for cookouts and special occasions. Another great thing about smoked chicken halves is that they can be customized with various seasonings and flavors. And let’s face it, serving chicken is a cost-effective way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
How do you cut a whole chicken in half?
Cutting a whole chicken in half is essential for even cooking and maximizing smoked penetration. Here’s a simple method to follow:
- Place the whole chicken on a clean cutting board breast-side down.
- Using a sharp knife or kitchen shears, cut along both sides of the backbone, starting from the tail and moving toward the neck.ย
- Remove the backbone and save it for making chicken stock.
- Flip the chicken over and press down on the breastbone to flatten the chicken.
- Finally, cut along the center of the breastbone to separate the chicken into two halves.
How long does it take to cook chicken halves at 250 degrees?
It takes approximately 45 minutes for them to reach 165 degrees F. This includes the saucing step during the last 15 minutes of cooking time. Be mindful that each grill or smoker works differently, so cooking times may vary.
Best Woods and Spices to Use: The choice of wood and spices can significantly impact the flavor profile of your smoked chicken. Here are some popular options to consider:
Wood:ย Fruitwoods like apple and cherry impart a mild to moderate smoke flavor, perfect for chicken. Robust wood chips, pellets, or wood chunks like hickory, oak, or mesquite can produce an overly smoky, bitter flavor.
Spices:ย A all-purpose poultry rub can enhance the flavor of your smoked chicken. Some common BBQ spices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne black pepper, thyme, and oregano.ย Let’s not forget tying them all together with a little brown sugar.
Recipe ingredients
- 1 chicken, 3-3 1/2 pounds
- Smoked chicken rub (or your favorite commercial dry rub)
- Mayonnaise or yellow mustard (binder)
- BBQ sauceย
Cooking Chicken Halves
- Prepare your pellet grill or smoker for 250 degrees F.
- Blot chicken skin dry with paper towels and apply a thin coating of mayonnaise or mustard.
- Next, apply the rub evenly, getting some of the seasoning under the chicken breast skin.ย
- When your grill is properly heated, place the seasoned chicken halves on the grates, close the lid, and cook for 30-35 minutes.
- Once the chicken halves reach an internal temperature of 155 degrees F, it’s time to apply the BBQ sauce.
- Brush on a good amount, close the grill lid, and cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees in the breast and thigh meat.
- Once smoked chicken halves are cooked, remove them from your grill and place them onto a clean cutting board. Let them stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Store leftover smoked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Side Dishes
- Deviled Egg Potato Salad
- Texas Creamed Corn
- Chive and Cheddar Corn Pudding
- Pellet Grill Funeral Potatoes
Smoked Chicken Halves
Ingredients
- 1 chicken 3-3 1/2 pounds
- 3 tablespoons smoked chicken rub or your favorite commercial poultry rub
- Mayonnaise or yellow mustard binder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Prepare your pellet grill or smoker for 250 degrees F.
- Blot chicken skin dry with paper towels and apply a thin coating of mayonnaise or mustard.
- Next, apply the rub evenly, getting some of the seasoning under the breast skin.
- When your grill is properly heated, place the chicken halves on the grates, close the lid, and cook for 30-35 minutes.
- Once the chicken halves reach an internal temperature of 155 degrees F, it’s time to apply the BBQ sauce.
- Brush on a good amount, close the grill lid, and cook for another 10-15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees.
- Once smoked chicken halves are cooked, remove them from your grill and place them onto a clean cutting board. Let them stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Store leftover smoked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
