How to cook whole chicken on traeger?

How to Cook Whole Chicken on Traeger: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking a whole chicken on a Traeger grill is a great way to achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful results. With its unique combination of smoke and heat, the Traeger grill can help you cook a whole chicken to perfection. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to cook a whole chicken on a Traeger grill.

Preparation

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients and equipment:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
• Traeger grill
• Traeger pellets (your choice of flavor)
• Olive oil
• Salt
• Pepper
• Your choice of seasonings (optional)

Step 1: Preheat the Traeger Grill

Preheat the Traeger grill to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that the grill is hot and ready for cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings. You can also rub the chicken with olive oil to help the seasonings stick.

Step 3: Place the Chicken on the Traeger Grill

Place the chicken on the Traeger grill, breast side up. Close the lid and ensure that the vents are set to allow for proper airflow.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Cook the chicken for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check the internal temperature by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh.

Step 5: Check the Chicken

After 2 hours, check the chicken to see if it’s cooked to your liking. Check the internal temperature and the color of the chicken. If the chicken is not cooked to your liking, close the lid and continue cooking for another 30 minutes.

Step 6: Rest the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the Traeger grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and the chicken to retain its moisture.

Step 7: Carve and Serve

Carve the chicken and serve it with your choice of sides and condiments.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you cook the perfect whole chicken on a Traeger grill:

• Use different types of wood pellets: Try using different types of wood pellets, such as hickory or apple, to give your chicken a unique flavor.
• Add aromatics: Add some aromatics, such as onions and carrots, to the grill with the chicken for added flavor.
• Try different seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or paprika, to give your chicken a unique flavor.
• Use a marinade: Marinate the chicken in your favorite marinade before cooking for added flavor.

Traeger Whole Chicken Cooking Times

Here is a table of Traeger whole chicken cooking times based on the size of the chicken:

Conclusion

Cooking a whole chicken on a Traeger grill is a great way to achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful results. By following these steps and tips, you can cook a whole chicken to perfection. Remember to preheat the grill, prepare the chicken, place it on the grill, cook it to the right temperature, check it, rest it, and carve it. Happy grilling!