How to Roast a Whole Chicken on a Traeger Grill

This recipe for whole roasted chicken involves brining the chicken for moisture, then rubbing it with herb butter to create a crispy, savory crust. The recipe is designed to be superior to supermarket rotisserie chickens.

Ingredients:

• 1 Whole fresh young chicken
• 1 (9 oz) container of Traeger Chicken Rub
• Water (as needed for brine)
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh sage
• 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 1/2 Cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper

Steps:

1. Prep Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
2. Brine Chicken: Mix the Traeger Chicken Rub with enough water to submerge the chicken in a container. Refrigerate the chicken in the brine for 4-12 hours.
3. Preheat Grill: Set the Traeger to 375°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
4. Prepare Butter Mixture: Mix the butter, thyme, sage, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
5. Apply Butter Mixture: Spread the butter mixture over the chicken and stuff any remaining butter inside the cavity.
6. Grill Chicken: Insert a probe between the chicken thigh and leg. Grill the chicken until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (approximately 1 hour).
7. Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Perfectly Roasted Chicken on a Pellet Grill

Roasting a whole chicken can seem like a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a mouth-watering, flavorful bird that surpasses any store-bought rotisserie chicken. This guide will walk you through the process of preparing and cooking a whole roasted chicken on a pellet grill, ensuring a juicy, savory, and crispy result every time.

Why Choose a Pellet Grill?

Pellet grills offer a unique combination of convenience and flavor. The wood pellets used in these grills impart a smoky taste that enhances the natural flavors of the chicken. Additionally, the consistent temperature control provided by pellet grills makes them perfect for roasting.

To achieve the best results, start with a fresh young chicken and gather the following ingredients:

• Traeger Chicken Rub: This rub provides a balanced blend of spices to season the chicken.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for creating the brine that will keep the chicken moist.
• Fresh Herbs: Sage and thyme add a fragrant, earthy aroma.
• Unsalted Butter: Ensures a rich, crispy skin.
• Coarsely Ground Black Pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness to the rub.

Preparation Steps:

1. Brining: Begin by patting the chicken dry with paper towels. Create a brine using Traeger Chicken Rub and water. Submerge the chicken in the brine and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but no more than 12. This step is crucial for locking in moisture and flavor.

2. Butter and Herb Mixture: While the grill preheats to 375°F, prepare a butter mixture. Combine softened unsalted butter with chopped fresh sage, thyme, kosher salt, and coarsely ground black pepper. This mixture will be applied to the chicken to enhance the flavor and ensure a crispy skin.

3. Grilling: Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry again. Rub the butter mixture all over the chicken and inside the cavity. Insert a meat probe between the thigh and leg for accurate temperature monitoring. Place the chicken directly on the grill grates and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, approximately one hour.

4. Resting: After removing the chicken from the grill, let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavorful.

Conclusion:

Roasting a whole chicken on a pellet grill is a rewarding process that yields delicious results. By following these steps and using quality ingredients, you can create a roasted chicken that is tender, juicy, and full of smoky flavor. Enjoy your perfectly roasted chicken as the centerpiece of a memorable meal!