Description
A perfectly seasoned whole grilled chicken that’s juicy on the inside and smoky on the outside. This recipe is ideal for backyard barbecues and family dinners, delivering incredible flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs), cleaned and patted dry
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water (for basting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (about 350°F/175°C) and set it up for indirect cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to form a marinade.
- Rub the marinade generously over the chicken, making sure to coat under the skin and inside the cavity for maximum flavor.
- Place the chicken breast side up on the grill, over indirect heat. Cover and grill for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Baste the chicken occasionally with chicken broth or water to keep it moist and add smoky flavor.
- Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving and serving.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure perfect juiciness.
- Add wood chips to the grill for an extra smoky flavor.
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 chicken
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: whole grilled chicken, juicy chicken, smoky chicken, barbecue chicken, grilled whole chicken recipe