Our resident Pitmaster is dishing up all the secrets to Juicy Smoked Chicken on your pellet grill. We keep it simple so it's easy for you, and you always come out looking like a barbecue champ!
Preheat your smoker or pellet grill to 225 degrees Fahrenheit. Trim 1 (3 to 4 pound) whole chicken of any excess fat or skin that's hanging loose.
In a small bowl, combine 2 teaspoons paprika, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil over the chicken, ensuring an even coating. Rub the chicken with the prepared spice mixture. Be sure to distribute some of the seasoning under the skin for enhanced flavor.
Place the chicken directly on the grill grate, breast side up. Close the lid and smoke the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit.
To finish cooking and to achieve a crispy skin, increase the smoker temperature to between 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit. Continue to roast until the thickest part of the chicken breast reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. The actual cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken.
Remove the chicken from the smoker and let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Enjoy your smoked juicy chicken!