How To Smoke Chicken On A Gas Grill

Smoking Chicken on a Gas Grill: A Delicious and Easy Method

Smoking chicken on a gas grill can be a delicious way to enjoy tender and flavorful meat. With the right technique, you can achieve that perfect smoky flavor and juicy texture that will have your friends and family coming back for more. Here’s a simple guide to help you smoke chicken on your gas grill like a pro.

Choose the Right Chicken

When it comes to smoking chicken, it’s important to start with the right cut. Whole chicken or chicken pieces such as thighs, drumsticks, or breasts work well for smoking. Make sure the chicken is fresh and properly cleaned before you begin.

Prepare the Chicken

Before you start smoking the chicken, it’s essential to prepare it properly. You can brine the chicken in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar for a few hours to add flavor and ensure that the meat stays moist during the smoking process. Once it’s brined, pat the chicken dry and season it with your favorite dry rub or marinade for added flavor.

Preheat the Gas Grill

Preheat your gas grill to a low temperature, around 225-250°F (107-121°C). It’s important to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process to ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and absorbs the smoky flavor.

Add Smoke Flavor

While a gas grill may not provide the same level of smokiness as a traditional smoker, you can still achieve great flavor by using wood chips. Soak the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes, then place them in a smoker box or aluminum foil pouch with holes poked in the top to allow the smoke to escape. Once the grill is preheated, place the smoker box or pouch directly on the heat source to start generating smoke.

Smoke the Chicken

Place the seasoned chicken on the grill grates, away from the direct heat source. Close the lid and let the chicken smoke for about 1.5-2 hours, depending on the cut and size of the chicken. You can periodically check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Rest and Serve

Once the chicken has reached the desired temperature, carefully remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken. Serve the smoked chicken with your favorite sides and enjoy!

Smoking chicken on a gas grill is a great way to add a delicious smoky flavor to your meals. With these simple steps, you can create mouthwatering smoked chicken that will impress your guests and leave them craving more.