10 Best Smoker For Chicken And Grill Smoking (2023)
In the tantalizing world of smoked chicken, the art of mastering flavors is an adventure that spans wood types, rubs, and techniques. Here’s the scoop on the best smoker for chicken!

From the zesty touch of a dry rub on succulent chicken wings to the transformative power of hickory wood’s smoky embrace, every step contributes to an unparalleled experience.
As you embark on your journey to achieve the best chicken, the marriage of ingredients like olive oil, cherry wood, brown sugar, and a hint of chili powder forms the heart of a flavorful rub, ready to infuse your bird with character.
The sizzle of chicken on the grill, the tantalizing aroma of black pepper and other spices dancing through the air, all lead to the moment of succulent perfection.
The taste of perfectly smoked chicken, each bite a testimony to your culinary prowess.
Smoking Chicken
The thrill of experimenting with different woods, be it the rich and robust notes of hickory or the nuanced subtlety of maple wood, is a favorite among smoking aficionados.
The variations in heat source and temperature, often determined by the choice of wood and your favorite ways of smoking, create a symphony of strong flavors that envelop the meat.
Whether you’re drawn to the aromatic allure of fruit trees or the familiarity of classic hickory, the result is always the same. A perfectly smoked chicken that delights the senses.
The process involves patience and precision. From the application of a meticulously crafted chicken rub to achieving the ideal internal temperature.
As the smoke curls around the meat, the room temperature chicken absorbs the much flavor that wafts through the air.
The delicate touch of kosher salt draws out moisture, allowing the meat to rest in its enhanced flavors.
Wrapping the bird in aluminum foil during the rest ensures a gradual redistribution of juices. Leading to a juicy, tender outcome.
For those who savor the beauty of the entire chicken, the journey includes dissecting and spatchcocking, a technique that involves removing the backbone and flattening the bird for even cooking.
This approach ensures that every part of the chicken, from the thickest part of the breast to the red meat of the thighs, experiences the same great flavor and smoky kiss.
Best Smoker For Chicken
As you delve into the world of smoked chicken, remember that it’s more than just a culinary pursuit.
It’s an experience that brings together a lot of people around the grill, a celebration of flavors, techniques, and creativity.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice enthusiast, the exploration of smoked chicken is an art form that promises not only a delicious meal but also a delightful journey into the realm of smoke, heat, and flavor.
1. MOUNTAIN GRILLERS Beer Can Chicken Roaster Stand
Give this MOUNTAIN GRILLERS Beer Can Chicken Roaster Stand a try for a mouthwatering, crispy-skinned, and tender chicken on your next grill, oven, or smoker session.
This stand has a beer holder for the chicken which made the grilling experience enjoyable. In no time, your chicken will be perfectly crispy, delicious, and incredibly moist, leaving my guests in awe.
The MOUNTAIN GRILLERS Beer Can Chicken Roaster Stand is a great investment for those who enjoy experimenting with different grilling recipes and techniques.
2. RTT Beer Can Chicken Holder Grill or Smoker
The RTT Beer Can Chicken Holder is a must-have tool for grilling and smoking enthusiasts looking for a delicious, juicy roast.
This holder allows you to perfectly roast, bake, or grill a whole chicken that’s both crispy and moist. It achieves this mouth-watering result by using a beer canister in its design.
The canister can hold various liquids such as beer, wine, or even hold vegetables and seasonings. Thoroughly infusing your chicken with exceptional flavors and aromas.
3. RTT Chicken Leg and Wing Rack
The RTT Chicken Leg and Wing Rack is a versatile and efficient addition to your grilling and smoking arsenal. Ensuring perfectly cooked chicken every time.
This rack allows you to simply hang the chicken and leave it to cook perfectly on all sides. With 14 slots, you can fit a decent number of drumsticks and wings at once, optimizing cooking time.
It is a fantastic addition to any grilling or smoking enthusiast’s arsenal. With its even cooking, versatility, and easy cleanup, it’s a product I can confidently recommend.
4. RTT Chicken Leg Rack for Grill with Drip Tray
The RTT Chicken Leg Rack is a great choice for barbecue enthusiasts. Providing even cooking and easy cleanup, though some users may find it tricky to secure the chicken legs.
This is an ideal addition to your cooking arsenal.
Its convenient drip tray is also perfect for preventing flare-ups while retaining tasty drippings to create a delicious gravy or sauce.
The rack is designed to fit in any standard-sized oven, grill, or smoker.
5. RTT Beer Can Chicken Holder
The RTT Beer Can Chicken Holder is a must-have for those seeking tender, juicy, and flavorful chicken from their grill, oven, or smoker.
This holder is designed to bring out the best in your chicken. Ensuring that it stays moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
Additionally, the holder is simple to use. Just place the can with the beer or marinade in the middle and position the chicken on top.
6. Koohere Beer Can Chicken Holder
The Koohere Beer Can Chicken Holder provides a stable, easy-to-use, and efficient way to cook chicken on the grill or smoker.
It is designed with functionality in mind, allowing you to easily roast chicken using the beer can method.
Its premium food-grade stainless steel material ensures both durability and safety. While the bottom crossbar design accommodates standard 12 oz beer cans.
7. Meykers Beer Can Chicken Holder Stand
The Meykers Beer Can Chicken Holder Stand is a must-have for those seeking an easy, flavorful, and versatile way to roast chicken on the grill or in the oven.
This sand is designed for simplicity and convenience. Just fill the stainless steel canister with your choice of liquid (e.g., beer, wine).
Then place the chicken on the vertical holder and cook in the oven or on the grill.
This versatile roasting rack keeps the chicken upright and locked in position. Allowing for even cooking, juicy meat, and crispy skin.
8. RUSFOL Beercan Chicken Roaster and Rib Rack
Ideal choice for those seeking a versatile and durable stainless steel roasting rack for chicken and ribs.
The RUSFOL Beercan Chicken Roaster and Rib Rack holds around 4-5 pounds of chicken and up to 4 large ribs simultaneously.
The stainless steel construction ensures durability without concerns of rusting or corrosion.
9. G.a HOMEFAVOR Chicken Leg Wing Rack
The G.a HOMEFAVOR Chicken Leg Wing Rack is a fantastic addition to any BBQ enthusiast’s arsenal. Providing even cooking and space-saving storage.
With its 14 slots, allows for even cooking of your chicken drumsticks, making your BBQ experience hassle-free.
The tapered slots can handle various sizes, but some thicker drumsticks might struggle to fit in.
10. Mountain Grillers Chicken Leg Rack for Grill
The Mountain Grillers Chicken Leg Rack is a must-have for any BBQ enthusiast looking to smoke and grill chicken legs, wings, thighs, and drumsticks with ease and convenience.
It lets you cook up to 12 chicken legs, wings, thighs, or drumsticks simultaneously without constantly flipping or turning the food. Making the whole process way more convenient.
Plus, the locking mechanism keeps the rack stable and prevents it from tipping over.
Buying Guide
When it comes to smoking chickens to perfection, mastering the interplay of flavors and techniques is key.
From applying a delectable BBQ sauce to the skin to achieving that tender bite through higher temperature smoking, every step contributes to a masterpiece.
Before indulging in the flavorful feast, allowing the smoked chicken to rest is crucial.
Wrapping it in plastic wrap and letting it rest ensures that the juices redistribute, resulting in moist and succulent meat.
For optimal moisture, adding cups water to the smoking process infuses the chicken with a delightful tenderness, enhancing the overall experience.
Whether you’re savoring the juicy breast meat or relishing the delectable side of the backbone, the art of smoking a whole bird reaches its pinnacle when flavors meld and let the chicken rest, making every bite a celebration of culinary prowess.
When looking for the best smoker for chicken, there are several factors to consider to ensure a delicious and well-cooked meal.
Here’s the scoop on some crucial features and aspects you should examine before making a purchase.
Size and Cooking Space
First and foremost, consider the size of the smoker and the cooking space it provides. This is particularly important if you plan to smoke multiple chickens at once or if you have limited outdoor space.
Look for a smoker with:
- Enough cooking racks or grates to accommodate the number of chickens you plan to smoke
- Sufficient space between racks to allow for even heat distribution
Type of Smoker
There are various types of smokers available, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Some common types include:
- Charcoal smokers: Provide a robust, smoky flavor but require more hands-on attention
- Electric smokers: Easier to maintain consistent temperature but may sacrifice some smoke flavor
- Gas smokers: Quick to heat up and maintain a consistent temperature, but the smoke flavor may be milder
Temperature Control
When it comes to temperature, the best way to capture chicken’s tender juiciness involves a delicate balance between high and a low temperature.
Employing a digital meat thermometer ensures accuracy as you smoke your chicken, whether using a gas smoker, electric smoker, or a trusty charcoal grill.
Achieving the perfect internal temperature of the chicken, often around 165 degrees F., guarantees both safety and flavor.
You may choose to have a spatchcocked chicken for quicker and more even cooking, or opt for a whole chicken recipe, giving you the flexibility to explore various parts of the bird
Maintaining a consistent temperature is vital for achieving perfectly smoked chicken. Look for a smoker with:
- Adjustable temperature settings or vents
- A built-in thermometer or the ability to add an external thermometer
Material and Build Quality
The smoker’s material and build quality can significantly impact its durability and heat retention capabilities. Key aspects to examine include:
- Construction material: Commonly used materials are stainless steel, ceramic, or cast iron
- Wall thickness: Thicker walls provide better insulation and heat retention
- Seals and gaskets: Ensure proper sealing to prevent heat and smoke loss
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Finally, a smoker that is easy to use and maintain will make your smoking experience more enjoyable. Consider the following:
- Loading and unloading system: Hinged or removable cooking grates make loading and unloading chickens easier
- Ash and grease management: Removable trays or pans for collecting ash and grease can simplify cleanup
- Access to the firebox or heating source: Convenient access will make it easier to adjust fuel or heat as needed
In the enticing world of smoked chicken, where flavors intertwine and aromas enchant, choosing the best smoker is pivotal to achieving culinary perfection.
Whether you’re indulging in succulent chicken breasts or savoring the rich taste of dark meat chicken thighs, the array of options, from the traditional charcoal grill to the advanced pellet smoker, caters to diverse preferences.
Elevating your smoking game starts with the first thing – the right preparation.
Patting the chicken skin dry with paper towels and applying a skillfully crafted spice rub, infused with elements like garlic powder, onion powder, and the mild kick of cayenne pepper, sets the stage for robust flavors that penetrate deep into the meat.
Experimentation is key, and creating your own rub or following a meticulously detailed smoker recipe card unveils the power of combining various elements, from the nutty flavor of pecan wood to the fruity essence of cherry or apple wood chips.
Type of Wood
The type of wood you select significantly shapes the outcome.
Fruit woods like cherry, apple, and maple impart a mild fruity flavor that compliments chicken’s delicacy, while hickory and pecan wood chunks infuse robust notes that elevate the overall flavor profile.
As the smoke swirls around the chicken, the outside of the chicken slowly crisps up, and the skin turns into a delectable golden-brown, tantalizing both the eyes and taste buds.
Once the chicken reaches its desired doneness, allowing it to rest is a crucial step often overlooked.
This provides time for the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and succulence.
A well-rested chicken breast or thigh, moist and tender, is the ultimate reward after hours of smoking.
For those seeking convenience, the pellet grill emerges as an excellent choice.
Its digital thermometer and precise control over smoker temperature offer consistent results, ideal for both novices and seasoned smokers.
Tips to Remember
In conclusion, to achieve the best results when smoking chicken, the right tools and ingredients are essential.
A sharp knife is a must for preparing your chicken, allowing you to make precise cuts for even cooking. Pair that with the best wood pellets, which will impart a unique, smoky flavor to the meat.
For a juicy, tender finish, consider brining your chicken in cold water before smoking.
This step can make all the difference in enhancing the flavor and moisture content of the chicken.
From preparation to smoking, each step plays a crucial role in ensuring you get the best out of your chicken smoking experience.
Final Thoughts
As you gather around to enjoy your smoked whole chicken, remember that leftover chicken can be preserved in an airtight container, offering the promise of more delicious meals to come.
With every succulent bite, you’ll appreciate the skillful interplay of heat, smoke, and time that has transformed ordinary chicken into an extraordinary gastronomic delight.
Indeed, smoking chicken is one of the most favored and cherished a cooking method, as it brings families and friends together.
Igniting conversations and evoking smiles, making each smoked chicken experience an unforgettable journey into the world of flavors, aromas, and culinary satisfaction.

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