Do you need to brine chicken before smoking?

Table of Contents:

1. Do you need to brine chicken before smoking?
2. How long does it take to smoke a chicken at 400 degrees?
3. Is it better to smoke chicken fast or slow?
4. Why are chicken breasts so big these days?

Do you need to brine chicken before smoking?

If you haven't already, try a brine before you smoke that chicken. Brine is, simply, a salt and water solution used to enhance texture, flavor, and moisture. Brining is best for poultry and fish since these meats contain very little fat which in make meats richer and juicier.

How long does it take to smoke a chicken at 400 degrees?

It takes around an hour at a temp of 400-450 degrees to get the whole chicken cooked, so I also used a remote thermometer to help me keep an eye on it and remain as hands off as possible. Here's the chickens right after they are both done (internal temp of 170 to be fully cooked).

Is it better to smoke chicken fast or slow?

Chicken is difficult to get right in a smoker. Cooking at really low temperatures can result in a rubbery skin. Chicken is one meat where I've never seen the need to go low/slow. ... Not only does it cook faster, it also doesn't take on an overwhelming amount of smoke.

Why are chicken breasts so big these days?

Chickens today are in fact bigger and grow faster! As the demand for chicken as a protein has increased, especially chicken parts like breasts or thighs versus whole birds, farmers have worked to create larger and healthier chickens to meet that demand.