Smoking Whole Chicken
Time: 2.5-4 hours at 135-150°C (275-300°F)
Internal Temperature: 74°C (165°F) in the thigh
Spatchcock for even cooking. Higher temp than red meat for crispy skin. Dry brine overnight.
How Long to Smoke Whole Chicken
How long to smoke whole chicken? 2.5-4 hours at 135-150°C (275-300°F). Internal temp: 74°C (165°F) in the thigh. Complete smoking guide.
By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026
Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels
Quick Answer
Smoke whole chicken: 2.5-4 hours at 135-150°C (275-300°F). Internal temp: 74°C (165°F) in the thigh. Spatchcock for even cooking.
Try Our BBQ Cook Time Calculator
Get precise cooking times for any meat, cut, and method. Never over-cook or under-cook your BBQ again.
Open CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How long to smoke whole chicken?
2.5-4 hours at 135-150°C (275-300°F). Spatchcock for even cooking.
Related BBQ Guides
Sources & References
1
AmazingRibs.com
The science of BBQ — temperature guides, techniques, and recipes backed by food science.
Reference
2
3
Mad Scientist BBQ (YouTube)
Jeremy Yoder's detailed BBQ experiments and science-based cooking methods.
Video
4
Food Standards Australia New Zealand
Official Australian food safety guidelines and safe cooking temperatures.
Government