If you’re looking for a new way to cook chicken, why not try smoking it in an electric smoker? This guide will show you how to smoke a whole chicken in an electric smoker, and the results will be delicious!
Smoking chicken is a great way to add flavor and smokiness to the meat, and it’s also a great way to cook it slowly so that it stays juicy and tender. An electric smoker is a great option for this type of cooking because it’s easy to use and doesn’t require any special equipment.
So if you’re ready to try out this new cooking method, keep reading for instructions on how to smoke a whole chicken in an electric smoker.
You can also check our articles on How to Smoke a Pork Butt in an Electric Smoker, How to Smoke a Turkey in an Electric Smoker, How to Smoke a Brisket in An Electric Smoke, How to Make Electric Smoker Ribs, How to Clean an Electric Smoker, and How to Make Electric Smoker Chicken Breast.
How to Choose a Whole Chicken?
When you’re smoking chicken, it’s important to choose a good quality bird. Look for a chicken that is free-range or organic, and try to find one that is not injected with any hormones or additives.
It’s also a good idea to choose a chicken that is on the smaller side. A smaller chicken will cook more evenly and will be easier to handle when you’re smoking it.
Clean and Trim the Whole Chicken
Once you’ve chosen your chicken, it’s time to clean and trim it. Start by removing the giblets from the inside of the chicken. These are the organs that are usually found in a little bag inside the cavity of the bird.
Next, rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water. Then, use a paper towel to pat the chicken dry. Trim any excess fat off of the chicken, and remove the wing tips if desired. You can save these for making stock, or you can discard them.
How to Prep a Whole Chicken?
The next step is to prep the chicken for smoking. Start by rubbing the inside and outside of the chicken with a dry rub or spice blend of your choice.
Then, stuff the cavity of the chicken with any aromatics that you like. Some good options include lemon slices, onion wedges, garlic cloves, or fresh herbs.
Once the chicken is prepped, it’s time to get started smoking it.
How to Smoke a Whole Chicken in an Electric Smoker?
Now that your chicken is ready to go, it’s time to start smoking it. Begin by preheating your electric smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
While the smoker is preheating, place the chicken on a rack inside the smoker. You can also add any vegetables that you like to the smoker at this time.
When the smoker is up to temperature, add your wood chips or pellets to the smoker box. Then, put the lid on the smoker and let it do its work.
Smoke the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
How to Season the Chicken?
There are a variety of ways that you can season your chicken before smoking it. Some popular options include:
1. Brining – This is a process of soaking the chicken in a saltwater solution. This helps to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
2. Dry rub – A dry rub is a mixture of spices that is rubbed onto the chicken. This adds flavor and helps to create a crispy skin.
3. Marinade – A marinade is a liquid that the chicken is soaked in. This can be anything from olive oil to BBQ sauce.
You can use one of these methods, or you can get creative and come up with your own seasoning blend. Experiment and see what you like the best. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process.
Do you have to Brine the Chicken Before Smoking?
You don’t have to brine the chicken before smoking it, but it’s a good idea if you want to ensure that the meat is juicy and flavorful.
To brine the chicken, start by mixing together a saltwater solution. The ratio of salt to water should be 1 cup of salt for every gallon of water.
Soak the chicken in the saltwater solution for 1-2 hours, then remove it and pat it dry. Proceed with the recipe as directed.
Adding Flavors to the Brine
If you decide to brine the chicken before smoking it, you can also add some flavors to the brine. Some good options include garlic, onion, peppercorns, or herbs.
Soaking the chicken in a flavored brine will infuse it with those flavors, and they’ll be present in the final product. This is a great way to add some extra flavor to your chicken.
How long to Smoke a Whole Chicken in an Electric Smoker?
The length of time that you smoke the chicken will depend on its size. A smaller chicken will take 3-4 hours to cook, while a larger chicken will take 4-6 hours.
A good rule of thumb is to smoke the chicken for 30 minutes per pound. So if you have a 4-pound chicken, you’ll smoke it for 2 hours.
Remember, these are only guidelines. Every smoker is different, so it’s important to use a food thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature before eating it.
How to Tell when the Chicken is Done Smoking?
The best way to tell when the chicken is done smoking is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, making sure not to touch any bones. The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Another way to tell if the chicken is done is to give it the “wiggle test.” Gently wiggle one of the chicken’s legs. If it moves easily, that means the chicken is done.
Yet another way to tell if the chicken is done is to look at the skin. The skin should be golden brown and crispy. If it’s not, put the chicken back in the smoker and continue cooking it.
How to get Crispy Skin on your Smoked Whole Chicken?
We give below some secret tips to getting crispy skin on your smoked whole chicken:
#1: Baking Powder
One of the best kept secrets to getting crispy skin when smoking a chicken is to use baking powder. Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the skin crisp up when exposed to heat. Just be sure to use an aluminum-free baking powder, as the aluminum can give the skin a weird flavor.
To use, simply sprinkle the baking powder onto the skin of the chicken. You can do this before or after you season the chicken.
#2: Dry Brine
Dry brining is another great way to get crispy skin on your smoked chicken. To dry brine, simply mix together salt, sugar, and spices, and rub it all over the chicken. The salt will help to draw out moisture from the skin, and the sugar will help to caramelize and crisp up the skin when exposed to heat.
How to Serve or Cut a Whole Smoked Chicken?
Once your chicken is cooked, it’s time to eat. But how do you serve or cut a whole smoked chicken?
The best way to cut a whole smoked chicken is to first remove the breasts. You can do this by using a knife or your hands. Once the breasts are removed, you can slice them into thin strips or cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Next, remove the legs and thighs. You can do this by bending the chicken until the joint pops or using a sharp knife to slice through the skin. Once the legs and thighs are removed, you can carve them into individual pieces or chop them into bite-sized pieces.
The wings and back of the chicken can be carved into thin strips or chopped into small pieces. And that’s it!
Can you Smoke a Frozen Chicken?
It is not recommended to smoke a frozen chicken. This is because the chicken needs to reach a certain internal temperature (165 degrees Fahrenheit) in order to be safe to eat.
Smoking chicken at a lower temperature will result in the chicken taking longer to cook, which can cause bacteria to grow. This is why it’s important to use a food thermometer to make sure the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature before eating it.
If you have a frozen chicken and you want to smoke it, the best thing to do is to thaw it first. Place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Once the chicken is thawed, you can proceed with your recipe.
Best Wood for Smoking Chicken
There are a variety of woods that you can use for smoking chicken. Some of the best options include:
1. Hickory – This is a strong, assertive wood that will impart a bold flavor to the chicken.
2. Mesquite – This wood has a strong, earthy flavor that pairs well with chicken.
3. Oak – This is a versatile wood that can be used for smoking a variety of meats. It imparts a subtle, smoky flavor to the chicken.
4. Maple – This wood is sweet and mellow, and it imparts a delicate flavor to the chicken.
5. Pecan – This wood is similar to hickory, but it is not as strong. It imparts a milder flavor to the chicken.
6. Apple – This wood is sweet and fruity, and it imparts a light flavor to the chicken.
The best way to determine which wood to use is to experiment and see what you like the best. Try smoking chicken with different woods and see which flavors you prefer.
How Much Wood Smoke to Use on a Whole Chicken?
The amount of wood smoke that you use will depend on the size of your smoker and the type of wood that you’re using.
If you’re using a small smoker, you’ll need to use less wood than if you’re using a large smoker. And if you’re using a strong-flavored wood like hickory, you’ll need to use less than if you’re using a milder wood like maple.
Start by adding a few pieces of wood to the smoker and see how much smoke it produces. If you want more smoke, add more wood. If you want less smoke, add less wood. It’s that simple.
What to Serve with Smoked Chicken?
There are a variety of sides that pair well with smoked chicken. Some good options include:
1. Potato salad – The creamy, tangy dressing is a perfect complement to the smoky chicken.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchy, vinegary cabbage is a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.
3. Baked beans – The sweet, savory beans are a classic pairing for smoked meats.
4. Macaroni and cheese – The creamy, cheesy pasta is a delicious side for smoked chicken.
5. Corn on the cob – The sweet corn is a summertime staple that goes great with smoked chicken.
These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to get creative and serve the smoked chicken with your favorite sides.
How to Spatchcock Chicken?
Spatchcocking is a method of preparing chicken (or other poultry) for grilling or roasting. The bird is first butterflied, meaning the backbone is removed so it can be opened up and flattened. This results in more even cooking, as well as crispier skin.
To spatchcock a chicken, you will need a sharp knife and a pair of sturdy kitchen shears. First, use the knife to remove the chicken’s backbone. Then, use the shears to cut through the breastbone. Once the chicken is butterflied, you can flatten it out and proceed with your recipe.
Spatchcocked chicken can be grilled, roasted, or even smoked. If you’re smoking a spatchcocked chicken, it’s best to use a lower temperature, so the meat doesn’t dry out.
Sauce Ideas to Pair with Smoked Chicken
1. BBQ sauce – A classic pairing for smoked chicken, BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy flavor to the meat.
2. Buffalo sauce – If you like your chicken with a little bit of heat, try pairing it with buffalo sauce.
3. Ranch dressing – The creamy, cooling ranch dressing is a delicious complement to the smoky chicken.
4. Honey mustard – The sweet and tangy honey mustard is a great way to add some extra flavor to your smoked chicken.
5. Blue cheese dressing – The rich, creamy blue cheese dressing is a perfect dipping sauce for smoked chicken.
How to Store Smoked Chicken?
Smoked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or in the freezer for up to four months. If you’re storing the chicken in the fridge, be sure to place it in an airtight container or zip-top bag. If you’re freezing the chicken, wrap it tightly in foil or freezer paper.
When reheating smoked chicken, be sure to heat it until it’s piping hot. This will help kill any bacteria that may have grown while the chicken was stored.
Ideas for what to make with Smoked Chicken + leftovers
If you have smoked chicken leftovers, there are a variety of ways to use them. Here are a few ideas:
1. Chicken salad – Mix the smoked chicken with mayonnaise, diced celery, and chopped grapes for a creamy, flavorful salad.
2. Chicken soup – Add the smoked chicken to your favorite soup recipe for a smoky twist.
3. Chicken sandwiches – Make smoked chicken sandwiches with your favorite bread and toppings.
4. Chicken burritos – Wrap the smoked chicken in a tortilla with rice, beans, and salsa for a quick and easy meal.
5. Chicken pasta – Toss the smoked chicken with your favorite pasta sauce and cooked pasta for a hearty dish.
Tips & Tricks to Smoke a Whole Chicken
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you smoke the perfect whole chicken:
1. Truss the chicken – Trussing the chicken helps to keep the shape of the bird while it cooks. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and prevents the legs and wings from drying out.
2. Soak the wood chips – Soaking the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before smoking will help to create more smoke.
3. Use a meat thermometer – A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit before it’s safe to eat.
4. Rest the chicken – Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
5. Carve carefully – When carving the chicken, be sure to use a sharp knife and carve along the bone. This will help to keep the juices in the meat and prevent them from drying out.
Smoked Chicken Recipes Electric Smoker
Some of our favorite recipes that can be made in an electric smoker include:
Juicy Dry Rubbed and Smoked Beer Can Chicken Recipe
This dry rubbed and smoked beer can chicken is juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. The dry rub gives the chicken a delicious flavor, while the beer helps to keep it moist and juicy.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 can of beer
- Dry rub of your choice
Instructions:
1. Remove the giblets from the chicken and rinse the bird inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Open the can of beer and take a few sips (or pour it out). This will help to prevent the can from exploding when it’s exposed to heat.
3. Sprinkle the dry rub all over the chicken, making sure to get it into all of the nooks and crannies.
4. Place the chicken onto the smoker grate, breast side up, and put the can of beer into the cavity of the chicken.
5. Close the lid of the smoker and smoke at 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
6. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
7. Enjoy!
Garlic Herb Smoked Whole Chicken
This garlic herb smoked whole chicken is full of flavor and perfect for a family dinner. The garlic and herbs give the chicken a delicious flavor, while the lemon helps to keep it moist.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Remove the giblets from the chicken and rinse the bird inside and out with cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
2. Place the lemon, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper into the cavity of the chicken.
3. Tuck the wings beneath the body of the chicken and use a piece of kitchen twine to tie together the chicken’s legs.
4. Place the chicken onto the smoker grate, breast side up, and smoke at 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
5. Remove the chicken when it is finished smoking and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.
6. Enjoy!
How to Smoke a Whole Chicken in an Electric Smoker FAQs
How do you keep chicken moist when smoking?
There are a few things that you can do to keep your chicken moist when smoking. First, be sure to use a dry rub or marinade that contains oil. This will help to keep the chicken moist as it smokes.
Second, use a beer can or water pan inside the smoker. This will help to add moisture to the air and keep the chicken from drying out.
Finally, be sure to let the chicken rest for 20-30 minutes after smoking. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
How long does it take to smoke a chicken at 180?
It should take about 3-4 hours to smoke a chicken at 180 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken is cooked through.
Is it better to smoke a chicken at 225 or 250?
It is better to smoke a chicken at 225 degrees Fahrenheit. This will allow the chicken to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful bird.
Do you flip chicken when smoking?
No, you do not need to flip chicken when smoking. Just place the chicken onto the smoker grate, breast side up, and let it cook until it is finished.
How do you smoke chicken in a Masterbuilt smoker?
Smoking chicken in a Masterbuilt smoker is similar to smoking chicken in any other type of smoker. Just remove the giblets from the chicken, rinse it off, and pat it dry. Then, season the chicken with a dry rub or marinade, and place it onto the smoker grate.
Set the temperature to 225 degrees Fahrenheit and let the chicken smoke for 3-4 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving. Enjoy!
Conclusion
Smoking a whole chicken is not as difficult as it may seem. Just follow the steps outlined in this guide on how to smoke a whole chicken in an electric smoker, and you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with a juicy and flavorful bird.
With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can enjoy a delicious smoked chicken that is full of flavor. And, yes…it is definitely worth the wait! So what are you waiting for? Get smoking!