Grilled, Smoky Whole Chicken

Grilling a whole chicken might seem like a daunting task, but with the right technique and a little patience, it can be a delicious and rewarding experience. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions for achieving a flavorful and tender grilled chicken. Using indirect heat and wood chips adds an extra layer of smoky flavor, perfect for any outdoor barbecue.

MAKES: 4 to 6 servings

TIME: About 1 1/4 hours

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 whole chicken, 3 to 4 pounds, trimmed of excess fat
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Any of the seasonings from “Infinite Ways to Season or Serve Any Grilled or Broiled Chicken Dish”

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Heat a charcoal or gas grill to moderate heat, creating a two-zone fire with one side of the grill cooler than the other. Place the cooking rack 4 to 6 inches from the heat source. Optionally, soak some wood chips in water for a few minutes, then sprinkle them directly on the grate over the hotter part of the fire or place them in a foil container over the flames.
2. Rub the chicken with the olive oil and season it with salt, pepper, and your preferred seasoning rub.
3. Place the chicken on the cooler side of the grill, breast side up. As the fat starts to render, usually after about 20 minutes, turn the chicken onto one of its sides. If the fire flares up at any point, move the chicken to an even cooler part of the grill. Turn the chicken every 5 to 10 minutes until most of the fat has rendered, and the bird looks nearly cooked, usually after about 40 minutes. Add more coals if needed to maintain the fire.
4. Move the chicken directly over the hotter part of the fire and continue grilling, turning frequently, until it achieves a nice brown color. If the fire flares up, move the chicken back to the cooler part of the grill temporarily.
5. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use an instant-read thermometer to measure the temperature in the meaty part of the thigh. It should read at least 155–165°F. When done, remove the chicken from the grill.
6. Allow the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving it hot, warm, or at room temperature. Accompany with lemon wedges or any of the suggested seasonings from “Infinite Ways to Season or Serve Any Grilled or Broiled Chicken Dish.”

TIPS:

• Cooking the chicken over indirect heat helps to prevent burning and allows for even cooking. This technique ensures that the chicken cooks through without drying out the meat.
• Soaking wood chips in water and placing them over the flames adds a smoky flavor to the chicken. This step is optional but highly recommended for enhancing the overall taste.
• If the fire flares up during grilling, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill temporarily to avoid charring the skin.
• To ensure that the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. The meaty part of the thigh should read at least 155–165°F (68–74°C).
• Allowing the grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
• Feel free to get creative with different seasoning rubs and herbs to suit your taste preferences. Refer to the “Infinite Ways to Season or Serve Any Grilled or Broiled Chicken Dish” for inspiration.
• Squeezing lemon or lime wedges over the grilled chicken just before serving adds a burst of freshness and brightens the flavors.
• Grilled whole chicken is incredibly versatile. It can be served hot, warm, or at room temperature, making it suitable for various occasions and meal plans.
• Grilling a whole chicken may take a few tries to master, so don’t be discouraged if it’s not perfect the first time. With practice, you’ll become more confident and skilled in achieving the desired results.
• Always handle raw chicken with care and follow proper food safety guidelines to prevent cross-contamination and ensure a safe and enjoyable grilling experience.

With these simple instructions, you can impress your friends and family with a beautifully grilled whole chicken, bursting with flavor and juiciness. Enjoy this delightful dish at your next outdoor gathering or as a special treat for a weeknight dinner. Happy grilling!