Traeger Smoked Chicken

Brine:

• 2 quarts (1.89 l) water divided
• 1/3 cup (97 g) salt
• 1 lemon quartered
• 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme and rosemary
• 2 tablespoons (24 g) brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic smashed
• 1 tablespoon (10 g) black peppercorns

Chicken:

• 4 pound (2 kg) whole chicken
• 1 lemon halved
• 4 cloves garlic smashed
• 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme and rosemary
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) butter

Rub: (I just used Weber rub)

• 1 tablespoon (7 g) paprika
• 2 teaspoons (12 g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon (0.1 g) dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon (3 g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (2 g) chili powder
• 1 teaspoon (2 g) onion powder

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine 2 cups water and remaining brine ingredients. Simmer until the salt has fully dissolved. Remove from heat and cool.
2. Once cooled, combine the brine with the remaining cold water in a large enough container to hold the water and chicken (that will fit in your refrigerator).
3. Submerge the chicken, breast side down, in the brine. Refrigerate for 12-20 hours (not longer than this!).
4. Remove the chicken from the brine and rinse it thoroughly to remove excess salt. Pat dry with a paper towel. Stuff the chicken with the lemon, garlic and herbs. Mix the butter and seasonings together and spread all over the chicken. Tie the legs together.
5. When ready to cook, start the grill on smoke with the lid open for 5 minutes for the fire to establish. Close the lid, turn up the heat to 225° F(107°C) and preheat the grill with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
6. Place the chicken, breast side up, directly on the grate. Insert a meat probe in the thickest part of the breast. Cook at 225° F(107°C) for about 3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 140° F(60°C). Increase the temperature to 325° F(163°C)and continue cooking the chicken for another 30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165° F(74°C).
7. Remove the chicken from the grill and rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Original posting: https://afoodloverskitchen.com/the-best-traeger-smoked-chicken/