Smoked Lemon Herb Chicken
Bright, fresh smoked chicken with lemon.
Jump to RecipeThis bright, fresh take on smoked chicken features lemon and herbs that complement the smoke rather than competing with it. It's lighter than heavily-rubbed birds but still packed with flavor. Perfect for when you want something that feels a bit healthier.
This is great for spring and summer meals, dinner parties where you want something elegant but not heavy, or any time you want clean, bright flavors.
Pair with Mediterranean sides - Greek salad, roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables. The lighter flavors work well with grain salads, quinoa, or couscous. Keep things fresh and relatively light.
Vary the herbs based on what's fresh and available. Thyme, rosemary, oregano, parsley - all work beautifully. The lemon is essential for that brightness. Fresh herbs make a noticeable difference.
The lemon inside the cavity perfumes the meat from the inside while the herb rub flavors the outside. Don't skip either component. The result is incredibly aromatic and flavorful.
Ingredients
Instructions
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1
Zest and juice 2 lemons. Mix the zest and juice with olive oil, chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley), and minced garlic to create a bright marinade.
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2
Coat the chicken inside and out with the lemon herb mixture. Stuff the squeezed lemon halves inside the cavity. Season the outside with salt, pepper, and a dusting of Plowboys Yardbird Rub.
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3
Set your smoker to 275°F with Bear Mountain Apple Pellets for a clean, mild smoke.
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4
Place the chicken breast-side up on the smoker grate and cook for about 3 hours.
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5
The chicken is done when the breast reaches 165°F and the thigh reaches 175°F. Verify with an instant-read thermometer.
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6
Rest for 15 minutes before carving. The lemon and herb aroma when you slice into it is incredible.