There’s something special about grilling a whole chicken—the way the skin gets perfectly crispy and golden while the meat stays tender and juicy underneath. This recipe has become my favorite way to make chicken, whether we’re firing up the grill on a warm afternoon or using it indoors when the weather doesn’t cooperate.
The flavor you get from grilling a whole bird is hard to beat, and it’s surprisingly straightforward once you know the steps. If you’ve never tried it before, this is your sign to give it a shot.
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Table of contents
Easy Grilled Whole Chicken
: Grilling a whole chicken gives you this beautiful, golden bird with crispy skin that everyone loves and meat that stays juicy all the way through. It works just as well for a simple weeknight dinner as it does when you’re feeding a crowd—it looks impressive on the table either way.
You get to control exactly which seasonings go on it, so you can make it as simple or as flavorful as you want. Plus, any leftovers turn into easy meals throughout the week—think sandwiches, salads, or quick dinners when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch.
Shopping List
- Whole chicken
- Butter
- Garlic Powder
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- BBQ rub
How to Grill a Whole Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the packaging. Remove and discard the neck and any organs inside the cavity. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Rub softened butter all over the chicken, including under the breast skin. Sprinkle BBQ rub inside and out of the chicken and rub with your hands. Tie the legs with kitchen twine (optional). Preheat grill to 375-400°F with an indirect heat zone.
Step 2: Grill
You can either leave the chicken on the tray or place it directly on the grill. Close the lid and grill for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the chicken, usually the breast. Ensure the meat thermometer doesn’t touch the bone to avoid an inaccurate reading.
Step 3: Finishing Up
Remove from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes. Carve the chicken and serve it with your preferred sides.
Optimal Grilling Temperature
Grill your whole chicken at 375°F and 400°F for the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before removing it from the grill.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Chicken
Store pulled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 6 months. To reheat, sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of water over the chicken and microwave in short bursts (up to a minute) or place the whole chicken in a preheated 400°F oven for 12-15 minutes.
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What to Serve With Grilled Chicken
Crispy Grilled Broccoli
Grilled Carrots With Brown Butter
Grilled Jalapeno Poppers
Grilled Smoked Zucchini
Grilled Cornbread
Whole Grilled Chicken
Ingredients
- 7 lb whole chicken
- 1 stick butter softened
- 3 tbsp BBQ rub
Instructions
- Remove the chicken from the packaging. Remove and discard the neck and any organs inside the cavity. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Smear softened butter all over the chicken, including under the breast skin. Sprinkle BBQ rub inside and out.
- Preheat grill to 375-400°F with an indirect heat zone.
- Place the chicken on the grill over indirect heat, breast side up. Close the lid and grill for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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