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Smoked Spanish Chicken Halves

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Lina Murphy

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Looking to elevate your grilling game with a flavorful and smoky twist? These Smoked Spanish Chicken Halves are marinated in a zesty blend of Spanish spices and smoked to perfection. Ideal for a backyard BBQ or special dinner!

Ingredients

  • 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken halves
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Directions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Pat the chicken halves dry with paper towels. Place them in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish.

Make the Marinade:

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and fresh lemon juice.

Marinate the Chicken:

  1. Pour the marinade over the chicken halves, ensuring they are evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

Prepare the Smoker:

  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips or chunks of your choice for a smoky flavor. Cherry or hickory wood works well with chicken.

Smoke the Chicken:

  1. Place the marinated chicken halves on the smoker grates, skin side up. Smoke for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is tender and smoky.

Finish with a Sear (Optional):

  1. For extra crispiness, you can transfer the chicken to a hot grill or under the broiler for 5-7 minutes to crisp up the skin.

Serve:

  1. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides and garnished with fresh herbs if desired!

Servings and Timing

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 2 hours
  • Smoking Time: 1.5-2 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours (including resting time)
  • Servings: 4 servings (1 chicken half per serving)

Variations

  • Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
  • Wood Flavors: Experiment with different types of wood chips for varying smoky flavors.
  • Additional Flavors: Add other spices like paprika or turmeric to the marinade for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven or smoker to maintain the smoky flavor, or use a microwave if necessary.

10 FAQs

  1. Can I use skinless chicken pieces?
    Yes, but skinless pieces may not get as crispy. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  2. What if I don’t have a smoker?
    You can use a grill with indirect heat and wood chips for smoking, or bake in the oven with smoked paprika for a less smoky flavor.
  3. How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
    Marinating overnight helps retain moisture. Also, avoid overcooking by monitoring the internal temperature.
  4. Can I use chicken breasts instead of halves?
    Yes, but adjust the cooking time as breasts will cook faster than thighs.
  5. How can I make the chicken spicier?
    Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the marinade.
  6. Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
    Yes, freeze the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before smoking.
  7. What wood chips are best for smoking chicken?
    Cherry and hickory wood chips are popular choices, but apple or mesquite can also be used.
  8. Can I use a charcoal smoker?
    Yes, a charcoal smoker works well and adds a different smoky flavor.
  9. How do I know when the chicken is done?
    Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C).
  10. What sides go well with smoked chicken?
    Roasted vegetables, potato salad, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad complement smoked chicken nicely.

Conclusion

These Smoked Spanish Chicken Halves bring a delightful smoky flavor and a burst of Spanish spices to your table. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a special family dinner, this recipe combines ease with impressive results. Enjoy the rich taste and tender texture of this flavorful chicken, and let it elevate your next meal with a touch of gourmet flair!

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