BGE - BBQ Half-Chicken

This BBQ half-chicken recipe is perfect for the Big Green Egg, where the combination of indirect heat and flavorful wood smoke results in juicy, tender meat and a smoky, caramelized crust. Using a flavorful BBQ rub and finishing with a tangy sauce, this half-chicken is great for family dinners or outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

• Whole Chicken: 1 (about 4 pounds), halved

• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp

• BBQ Rub: 2-3 tbsp (use your favorite rub, or a mix of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar)

• BBQ Sauce: ½ cup (plus more for serving, if desired)

• Apple Wood or Cherry Wood Chunks: 1-2 pieces for a subtle, sweet smoke flavor

Instructions

1. Set Up the Big Green Egg

   • Set up the Big Green Egg for indirect cooking by placing the convEGGtor (or plate setter) in place. Fill the Egg with charcoal and light it, allowing it to reach a stable temperature of 300°F.

   • Add a couple of apple or cherry wood chunks to the charcoal for a subtle, smoky flavor.

2. Prepare the Chicken

   • Pat the chicken halves dry with paper towels, then rub both sides with olive oil to help the seasoning adhere and keep the skin crispy.

   • Generously sprinkle the BBQ rub over both sides of the chicken halves, pressing it in gently to make sure it sticks. Let the chicken sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Smoke the Chicken

   • Place the chicken halves on the Big Green Egg with the skin side up. Close the lid and smoke at 300°F for 1.5 - 2 hours or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.

   • Check occasionally to ensure the temperature remains steady, adjusting the vents as needed.

4. Apply BBQ Sauce

   • When the chicken reaches an internal temperature of around 155°F, brush a layer of BBQ sauce over the skin. Close the lid and continue cooking until the sauce becomes sticky and the chicken reaches 165°F in the thigh.

5. Rest and Serve

   • Remove the chicken from the Big Green Egg and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to settle and enhance the flavor.

   • Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side if desired, along with classic sides like coleslaw, corn, or baked beans.

Tips

• For Extra Crispiness: Start cooking the chicken skin side down for the first 10-15 minutes, then flip it to finish cooking skin side up.

Enjoy your delicious, smoky BBQ half-chicken cooked to perfection on the Big Green Egg!