Smoked Pulled Chicken
From the moment I first tasted Smoked Pulled Chicken, I was hooked. The smoky aroma wafting through the air, the tender meat that falls apart at the slightest touch, and the tangy barbecue sauce that perfectly complements the flavor of the chicken—it’s a dish that evokes memories of summer gatherings and family barbecues. I remember the excitement of gathering friends and family around the grill, each eager to take a bite of that delicious pulled chicken, nestled in a soft bun. It’s not just food; it’s an experience, a celebration of flavors and togetherness.
As I began perfecting my technique for making Smoked Pulled Chicken, I found joy in the process. From preparing the chicken with a rich olive oil and barbecue rub to the moment it sizzles on the Traeger Grill, every step is filled with anticipation. The best part? Watching everyone gather around, their faces lighting up with delight as they take their first bites. This recipe has become a staple in my home, a go-to for both casual dinners and special occasions. I can assure you that once you try it, it’ll become a favorite in your household as well!
Recipe Snapshot
2 hr 5 mins
5 mins
120 mins
Hard
300 kcal
25 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
18 g
Traeger Pellet Grill Ironwood 885, Traeger Mesquite Pellets, Meater Plus Thermometer
What You’ll Enjoy About This Smoked Pulled Chicken
It’s Incredibly Flavorful
When you think of pulled chicken, flavor should be the first thing that comes to mind. The process of smoking the chicken infuses it with rich, deep flavors that you just can’t replicate with baking or boiling. Each bite delivers a smoky punch, complemented by the sweetness of the barbecue sauce. Trust me; you’ll savor every morsel.
Easy to Prepare
Another reason to love Smoked Pulled Chicken is its simplicity. Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s largely hands-off. Prepare the chicken, set it on the smoker, and let the magic happen. This makes it the perfect dish for busy days when you still want to impress at dinner.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish isn’t just for summer barbecues; it excels at any event. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, planning a larger gathering, or just craving something comforting on a weeknight, Smoked Pulled Chicken fits the bill beautifully. It’s versatile enough to be served on sliders, tacos, or even over rice.
Family-Friendly
Finding meals that appeal to both adults and kids can be challenging. Thankfully, Smoked Pulled Chicken is a crowd-pleaser! Kids adore the tender chicken and the sweet sauce, while adults can appreciate the rich flavors and smoky notes. It’s a win-win!
Meal Prep Dream
If you love meal prepping, this is your dish. You can smoke multiple chickens at once, shred them, and store them in the fridge or freezer for later use. This makes weeknight meals so much easier and more delicious!
Perfectly Juicy Every Time
The smoking process also ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender. There’s nothing worse than dry pulled chicken, and with this method, you’re guaranteed moist, flavorful meat. Every bite will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients to Make Smoked Pulled Chicken
The ingredients for Smoked Pulled Chicken come together to create a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring that your dish is not only delicious but also memorable. The key players here are the whole chicken, which serves as the foundation, and the barbecue rub that infuses it with a robust flavor. The olive oil keeps the chicken moist and helps the rub adhere, while the barbecue sauce adds that final touch of sweetness. Together, these ingredients transform into a meal that’s sure to impress.
- 1 whole chicken: The star of the show! A whole chicken ensures juicy, tender meat that’s perfect for pulling apart.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and allows the rub to stick, enhancing the flavor.
- 1 tbsp barbecue rub: A delicious blend of spices that adds depth and character to the chicken.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce: The final touch that brings sweetness and richness, perfect for tossing with the pulled chicken.
Cooking Method for Smoked Pulled Chicken
Cooking Smoked Pulled Chicken is an experience in itself, blending patience with the anticipation of amazing flavors. By following a few simple steps, you’ll create a dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the detailed process of preparing this delicious recipe.
Prepare the Chicken. Begin by ensuring the chicken is dry by patting both sides down with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Next, massage olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. This will help the spices adhere. Then, sprinkle on your barbecue rub and massage it into the skin, making sure to cover every inch.
Smoke the Chicken. Fire up your Traeger smoker and set it to 250°F. Once it’s heated, add the chicken right onto the grill grates. The smoking process typically takes about 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F. Enjoy the enticing aroma while you wait!
Finish on a Higher Temperature. After the chicken has reached 130°F, crank up the smoker to 375°F. Cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F, which ensures your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat. Allow the chicken to rest for 15 to 20 minutes afterward; this helps the juices redistribute, ensuring maximum flavor.
Pull Apart Chicken. The chicken will be very hot, so using heat-proof gloves or tongs is essential. Carefully tear apart the chicken in a foil pan, making sure to remove all bones. You want to end up with beautifully shredded chicken that’s perfect for serving.
Finish with BBQ Sauce. Once pulled, toss the chicken with barbecue sauce until it’s fully combined. This final step infuses the chicken with extra flavor and moisture. Now your pulled smoked chicken is ready to be served!
Things Worth Knowing
- Monitor the Temperature: Always keep an eye on the internal temperature of the chicken. Using a meat thermometer guarantees perfectly cooked chicken every time.
- Resting Time Matters: Letting the chicken rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful.
- Experiment with Rubs: Don’t hesitate to try different barbecue rubs to discover unique flavor profiles. Each rub can bring out different flavors in the chicken.
- Wood Choices: The type of wood pellets used can affect the flavor. Try mesquite for a stronger smokiness or applewood for a milder, sweeter taste.
Ways to Customize
Customizing Smoked Pulled Chicken is a fun way to make it suit your taste or events perfectly. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Change the Sauce: Experiment with different types of barbecue sauces, like honey mustard or spicy variants, for a unique twist.
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate smoked vegetables like bell peppers or onions alongside the chicken for an added flavor boost.
- Spice it Up: If you like heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder to your rub for a spicy kick.
- Serve with Slaw: A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the pulled chicken.
- Try Different Breads: Experiment with various types of buns, such as brioche or ciabatta, to elevate your serving presentation.
- Make it a Taco Night: Shred the chicken and serve it in tortillas with fresh toppings like cilantro, lime, and avocado for a taco night twist.
Best Served With
To truly enjoy Smoked Pulled Chicken, consider serving it with a variety of sides that complement its rich flavors. Here are some delightful pairings:
- Coleslaw: A classic pairing, the crunch and creaminess of coleslaw contrast beautifully with the smoky chicken.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn, lightly charred, adds a delicious touch to any barbecue meal.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad brings a hearty element that balances the lightness of the pulled chicken.
- Beans: A side of baked beans adds a sweet and savory note that works harmoniously with the barbecue flavors.
- Warm Buns: Soft buns are perfect for serving the pulled chicken, soaking up all the delightful juices.
- Summer Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette is refreshing alongside the hearty chicken.
FAQ
Conclusion
The joy of Smoked Pulled Chicken lies in its rich flavors and the memories created around the dining table. Its versatility makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family meal or a special gathering with friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it might just become your new go-to dish for gatherings and celebrations!
Smoked Pulled Chicken
Equipment
- Traeger Pellet Grill Ironwood 885
- Traeger Mesquite Pellets
- Meater Plus Thermometer
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp barbecue rub
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken. First, ensure the chicken is dry by patting both sides down with paper towels. Next, massage olive oil all over the chicken. Then sprinkle on BBQ rub and massage it into the skin.
- Smoke the Chicken. Fire up the Traeger smoker to 250°F. Once heated, add chicken directly onto the grill grates. Smoke for about 1.5 hours, until it reaches 130 degrees F.
- Finish on a Higher Temperature. Crank up the smoker to 375°F. Cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F, ensuring your chicken is fully cooked. Rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Pull Apart Chicken. The chicken will still be very hot, so using heat proof oven gloves or tongs are suggested. Carefully tear apart the chicken in a foil pan, making sure to remove all bones.
- Finish with BBQ Sauce. Toss pulled chicken all over with BBQ sauce until it’s fully combined. Serve your pulled smoked chicken on buns, sliders, or in tacos.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: You can freeze pulled chicken for up to three months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers.
- Pairing: Serve with a side of coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different barbecue sauces or spices to find your perfect combination.
- Serving Suggestions: This chicken is perfect in sandwiches, tacos, or served over rice.
