Need help with KCBS worthy Chicken

[Bacardi]

I'm a big rib BBQer and haven't ever tried to smoke chicken. Just curious, do you guys brine it prior to smoking? I know that it would make a more juicy, tender bird, but also makes the skin rubbery...

 

[Ask-A-Butcher]

I'm a big rib BBQer and haven't ever tried to smoke chicken. Just curious, do you guys brine it prior to smoking? I know that it would make a more juicy, tender bird, but also makes the skin rubbery...

Some do, some don't. It's a personal choice. If you smoke indirect at a fairly high heat...around 300°, the meat really won't dry out.

 

[kitchenelf]

I'm a big rib BBQer and haven't ever tried to smoke chicken. Just curious, do you guys brine it prior to smoking? I know that it would make a more juicy, tender bird, but also makes the skin rubbery...

I have brined my chicken the same way I do my turkey

apple juice
smashed garlic cloves
black peppercorns
springs of fresh thyme, parlsey, and sage
orange slices
lemon slices
lime slices
brown sugar
kosher salt

Dissolve on stove - cool completely - then brine. It has the most wonderful apple "nose" to it!

 

[Bacardi]

thanks everyone!