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Flavorful Whole Smoked Chicken Recipe with Herb Butter Infusion

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A tender and juicy whole smoked chicken infused with herb butter, delivering smoky, herbal, and rich flavors perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds), preferably organic or free-range
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cups wood chips (hickory or applewood), soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the herb butter by combining softened butter, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, minced garlic, lemon zest, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika in a mixing bowl. Mix well.
  2. Rinse the whole chicken under cold water and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  3. Loosen the skin from the breast and thighs carefully without tearing.
  4. Spread about three-quarters of the herb butter evenly under the skin, focusing on the breast and thighs.
  5. Rub the remaining herb butter all over the outside of the chicken.
  6. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings underneath to truss the chicken.
  7. Drizzle olive oil over the skin and sprinkle with a pinch more salt and pepper.
  8. Preheat your smoker or charcoal grill to 225°F (107°C). Add soaked wood chips to the smoker box or directly on hot coals.
  9. Place the chicken breast side up on a roasting pan or grill grate. Close the lid and smoke for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  10. Remove the chicken from the smoker and tent loosely with foil. Let rest for 15 minutes.
  11. Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

If smoker temperature fluctuates, place a water pan inside to stabilize heat and add moisture. Keep a spray bottle of apple juice handy to spritz the chicken if it starts drying out. For dairy-free option, substitute butter with coconut oil mixed with garlic powder. Let the chicken rest after smoking to retain juices. Use a reliable meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked chicken, whole chicken, herb butter, backyard smoker, BBQ, easy smoked chicken, smoked poultry, herb infusion

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/flavorful-whole-smoked-chicken-recipe-with-herb-butter-infusion-easy-and-perfect/