Are you craving a juicy, crispy, and deliciously grilled chicken? This grilled whole chicken recipe is what you need. With its perfectly charred exterior and juicy and succulent interior, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
You will also get that delicious crispy skin and golden brown, while the meat is incredibly tender and juicy.
Whether you’re grilling outdoors on a sunny day or cooking indoors during the colder months, this recipe is perfect for turning out juicy chicken with a yummy char from the grill.
Table of contents
Why You Love This Recipe
Perfect for a Crowd: This grilled chicken is a crowd-pleaser and is ideal for gatherings of all sizes. Set it in the center of the table and let your guests help themselves to this delicious dish.
Kids Will Love It: Even the pickiest eaters will love the flavor and texture of this grilled chicken. Plus, there are plenty of ways to use the leftovers for meals throughout the week.
Way Better Than From the Store: This homemade grilled chicken is far superior to any store-bought version. Customize the spice rub to your liking rather than get a sodium-packed chicken.
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 and get an inaccurate reading.
Step 3: Finishing Up
Remove from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes. Carve the chicken and serve 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.
What To Serve With Chicken
We recommend serving this chicken with steamed veggies. However, other side dishes will pair well with the whole chicken!
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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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