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Grilled Whole Chicken

Grilled Whole Chicken Recipe

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 48 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 3 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 487
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken (3½ to 4 lb)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp cayenne (optional)

Method
 

  1. Butterfly the chicken by cutting out the backbone and pressing the breastbone flat until the bird lies even.
  2. Pat the chicken dry, rub with oil, then coat with the mixed dry spices. Let sit 20 to 30 minutes.
  3. Grill over indirect heat at 425°F to 450°F, skin side up, for 40 to 45 minutes, rotating halfway through.
  4. Move the chicken to direct heat, skin side down, for 2 to 3 minutes until the skin is crisp. Rest 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

The rest after grilling is essential for juicy meat, so don't rush it. If you want the skin even darker after the direct sear, pop it under a preheated broiler for a quick minute, but watch it carefully. Allowing the seasoned chicken to sit at room temperature while the grill preheats helps the rub adhere.