Mouthwatering Smoked Spatchcock Chicken on a Pellet Grill!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What is Spatchcock Chicken?
3. Benefits of Spatchcocking a Chicken
4. Tools and Ingredients
5. Step 1: Removing the Spine
6. Step 2: Flattening the Chicken
7. Seasoning the Chicken
8. Preparing the Smoker
9. Cooking the Spatchcock Chicken
10. Adding Sauce and Finishing Touches
11. Serving and Enjoying the Dish
12. Leftover Ideas
13. Conclusion

Introduction

Welcome to Ash Kickin BBQ! In this article, we are going to learn how to prepare and cook a delicious spatchcock chicken. If you've never heard of spatchcocking before, don't worry, we'll explain everything in detail. Spatchcock chicken is a fantastic method for cooking a whole chicken that results in faster cook time and even cooking throughout the bird. It's a simple and effective way to achieve moist and flavorful chicken every time. So, let's get started and learn how to spatchcock a chicken!

What is Spatchcock Chicken?

Spatchcock chicken, also known as butterflied chicken, is a technique where the backbone of the chicken is removed and the bird is flattened before cooking. By removing the backbone, the chicken opens up like a book, allowing it to lay flat on the cooking surface. This method has been used for centuries and is popular for its ability to cook the chicken more evenly and quickly. It is also known for producing crispy skin and flavorful meat.

Benefits of Spatchcocking a Chicken

There are several benefits to spatchcocking a chicken:

1. Faster Cook Time: Spatchcocking allows the chicken to cook more quickly compared to roasting a whole chicken. The flattened shape exposes more surface area to the heat, resulting in shorter cooking times.

2. Even Cooking: With the chicken laid flat, the heat is evenly distributed, ensuring that both the breast and thigh meat cook at the same rate. This eliminates the common problem of overcooked breasts and undercooked thighs.

3. Crispy Skin: The exposed skin of the spatchcocked chicken gets crispy and golden brown. This is because the skin is directly exposed to the heat source, allowing it to render its fat and become beautifully crispy.

4. Moist Meat: The flattened shape of the chicken allows the meat to cook evenly, preventing dryness. The result is tender, juicy meat that is full of flavor.

Tools and Ingredients

Before we begin, let's gather the tools and ingredients needed for spatchcock chicken:

Tools:

• Kitchen shears or a sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Roasting rack or wire rack
• Grill or smoker
• Thermometer

Ingredients:

• Whole chicken
• Rub or seasoning of your choice
• Barbecue sauce or glaze (optional)

Now that we have everything we need, let's move on to the first step.

Step 1: Removing the Spine

To spatchcock a chicken, we need to remove the backbone. This can be done using kitchen shears or a sharp knife. If you prefer kitchen shears, start by flipping the chicken breast-side down on the cutting board. Locate the spine, which runs along the back of the bird. Using the shears, cut alongside the spine on both sides to remove it. Be careful to avoid cutting yourself.

Alternatively, you can use a sharp knife to remove the spine. This method requires caution, as the knife can be more challenging to maneuver. Simply make a cut alongside the spine on both sides until it can be completely removed.

Once the spine is removed, discard it or save it for making chicken stock.

Step 2: Flattening the Chicken

After removing the spine, flip the chicken breast-side up. Make a small cut in the middle of the breastbone and press down firmly to flatten the chicken. This will allow the chicken to lie flat on the cooking surface and cook more evenly.

Some people choose to remove the rib cages or the keel bone at this point, but it is not necessary. It's a matter of personal preference and doesn't affect the final taste or presentation.

Now that the chicken is flattened, it's time to move on to seasoning.

Seasoning the Chicken

Seasoning the spatchcock chicken is a crucial step to enhance its flavors. You can use any rub or seasoning of your choice. Apply the seasoning generously all over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

For the underside of the bird, we recommend using a rub that complements the flavors you want to achieve. A popular choice is Tailgater's Barbecue Party Rub from Sucklebusters, which adds a delightful flavor to the chicken.

(Heading 2) Preparing the Smoker

Before we start cooking, let's prepare the smoker. In this demonstration, we will be using the Pitboss Pro Series 1600. Set the smoker to a temperature of 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

To enhance the flavor of the spatchcock chicken, we will be using cooking pellets. For this cook, we will be using apple mash blend pellets. Apple pellets add a fruity and slightly sweet flavor to the meat, creating a delicious aroma.

Add the apple mash blend pellets to the smoker's pellet hopper and allow them to ignite. Once the smoker reaches the desired temperature, we are ready to cook!

Cooking the Spatchcock Chicken

Now that the smoker is properly heated and the chicken is seasoned, it's time to cook the spatchcock chicken. Place the chicken on a roasting rack or wire rack and carefully transfer it to the smoker. Position the chicken with the legs and thighs facing the fire pot for optimal cooking of the dark meat.

Maintain the cooking temperature at 250 degrees Fahrenheit and let the chicken cook undisturbed for about 1 hour. This initial cooking time allows for the smoke flavor to infuse into the meat.

After the first hour, increase the temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit to help crisp up the skin. This higher temperature will also expedite the cooking process.

Adding Sauce and Finishing Touches

Once the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 155 degrees Fahrenheit, it's time to add some sauce for added flavor and a beautiful glaze. We recommend using Sucklebuster's Honey Barbecue Sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Brush the sauce onto the chicken, ensuring an even coating. The sauce will warm up and spread over the chicken as it continues to cook.

Lower the cooking temperature to 300 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the sauce from burning. Allow the sauce to set for about 5 minutes.

Serving and Enjoying the Dish

After the sauce has set, it's time to remove the chicken from the smoker. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit in the thickest part of the breast.

Once cooked, let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful chicken.

Serve the spatchcock chicken as a main course with your favorite sides. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Leftover Ideas

If you have any leftovers, don't worry! Spatchcock chicken is versatile and can be used in various dishes.

1. Shredded Chicken Tacos: Tear the leftover chicken into bite-sized pieces and use it as a filling for tacos. Top the tacos with your favorite salsa, guacamole, and cheese.

2. Chicken Sandwiches: Slice the chicken and serve it on your favorite bun with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of condiments. Add some avocado or bacon for an extra flavor boost.

3. Chicken Salad: Chop the chicken and combine it with mayonnaise, celery, onions, and seasonings to create a delicious chicken salad. Serve it on a bed of greens or as a sandwich filling.

4. Chicken Soup or Stock: Use the leftover bones and scraps to make homemade chicken soup or stock. Simmer the bones in water with vegetables and herbs for a flavorful base.

The possibilities are endless! Get creative and enjoy the versatility of spatchcock chicken.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully learned how to spatchcock and cook a delicious and flavorful chicken. The spatchcock method not only results in a moist and evenly cooked bird, but it also reduces the overall cooking time.

Remember to experiment with different rubs, seasonings, and sauces to create your own unique flavor combinations. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests at a backyard barbecue, spatchcock chicken is always a crowd-pleaser.

Enjoy the process, have fun, and savor every bite of your perfectly cooked spatchcock chicken!

Resources:

• Pitboss Grills
• Sucklebusters