We know what you’re thinking. Is it really worth going through the hassle of smoking a chicken when you can just grab a rotisserie one from the store? Why yes, yes it is. Dust off the ole’ smoker—this Applewood Smoked Chicken is worth every ounce of effort and every second of waiting those seemingly long hours as your chicken is smoked to perfection. The homemade seasoning rub will bring out all the best, savory, juicy flavors of chicken—all you have to do is figure out what you want to serve alongside your protein. We recommend mac and cheese, potato salad, green beans, or all of the above for a perfect meal.
Ingredients
- 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
- 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- applewood chips or chunks, for the smoker
Directions
Step 1 –Remove any chicken bits that need to be removed.
Step 2 –Using a meat cleaver, cut the chicken down the center of the breast. This will help you cover completely with the rub.
Step 3 –Combine the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, and salt together in a small mixing bowl.
Step 4 –Rub the chicken entirely with the spice mixture.
Step 5 –Allow the chicken to marinate for 30 minutes-1 hour, or up to overnight.
Step 6 –Preheat the smoker to 225 degrees.
Step 7 –Fill the wood pan with the applewood chips or chunks, and prep your water pan.
Step 8 –Once preheated, place the chicken on the rack, breast-side-up, and close the smoker.
Step 9 –Smoke the chicken for 4-5 hours, ensuring that the temperature never rises above 250 degrees F.
Step 10 –Once the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees F, remove it from the smoker and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes prior to serving.
Step 11 –Serve hot!
