Smoked Pulled Chicken
The ultimate comfort food, Smoked Pulled Chicken is juicy, tender, and infused with smoky flavors. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for gatherings, served on soft buns or in tacos. Try this delicious recipe tonight!
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.