Perfecting Smoked BBQ Chicken

Prepare to be amazed by the tantalizing flavors of smoked BBQ chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, this recipe is a must-have for your culinary arsenal. Follow these steps meticulously, and you’ll be rewarded with juicy, smoky chicken that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Ingredients:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken quarters (thighs and drumsticks) or a whole chicken cut into pieces
• 2 cups of wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry)
• Your favorite BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
• Your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Brine (optional, but highly recommended):
  • 1/2 cup of kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup of brown sugar
  • 1 gallon of cold water

Instructions:

1. Brine the chicken (optional):
   1. In a large container, dissolve the salt and brown sugar in cold water.
   2. Submerge the chicken pieces in the brine, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours.
   3. Remove the chicken from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
2. Apply the BBQ rub:
   1. Coat the chicken pieces generously with your favorite BBQ rub, ensuring to cover both sides thoroughly.
   2. Cover and refrigerate the chicken for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
3. Prepare the smoker:
   1. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes.
   2. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
   3. Drain the wood chips and add them to the smoker.
4. Smoke the chicken:
   1. Place the chicken pieces on the smoker grates, skin-side up. Close the lid and smoke for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the meat without touching the bone.
   2. Monitor the smoker periodically to maintain the proper temperature, adding more wood chips or charcoal as needed.
5. Apply BBQ sauce and finish:
   1. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken pieces with your favorite BBQ sauce.
   2. Once the chicken has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
6. Serve and enjoy:
   1. Present your smoked BBQ chicken with additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, and savor the delightful combination of smoky goodness and tangy sauce.

Elevate your grilling game with this recipe, and impress your friends and family with the irresistible allure of perfectly smoked BBQ chicken. Don’t let this culinary masterpiece slip away – it’s a dish worth savoring, time and time again.