1/2 Chicken Recipe
1/2 of a chicken smoked and served as one piece
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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Optional Sides
Method
Preparation and Cooking
- 1
Prepare the Chicken
Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to ensure a crispy skin.
- 2
Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken all over with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin for more flavor. Insert fresh rosemary sprigs into the cavity of the chicken.
- 3
Prepare the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use wood chips of your choice, such as hickory or applewood, for added flavor.
- 4
Smoke the Chicken
Place the chicken in the smoker breast side up. Smoke for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when checked at the thickest part of the breast and thigh.
- 5
Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- 6
Serve
Carve the chicken in half and serve it with your choice of BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and cornbread on the side.
