Smoked Coffee Rubbed Chicken Recipe
Looking for a unique and flavorful way to prepare chicken? Look no further than my smoked coffee rubbed chicken recipe.
This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of smoked chicken with the unique taste of coffee.
I love using a coffee rub on chicken as the coffee rub adds a depth and complexity to the flavor profile of the chicken, while the smoking process infuses it with a delicious, smoky aroma.
This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a new and exciting way to enjoy chicken, and it’s perfect for a family dinner, a backyard barbecue, or any special occasion.
Whether you’re a coffee lover or just looking to try something new, this smoked coffee rubbed chicken recipe is sure to impress.
For this cook you’ll need a Trager grill ideally with WiFIRE, however you should be able to easy adapt the recipe for other pellet smokers.
I have used my Trager Ironwood 885.
Why Make Coffee Rubbed Chicken?
Coffee-rubbed chicken is a delicious and flavorful way to cook chicken that is becoming increasingly popular among home cooks and professional chefs alike. There are several reasons why you might want to consider making coffee rub chicken on your smoker:
Adds Flavor: The coffee grounds provide a unique and complex flavor to the chicken, which is different from traditional seasonings. The flavor profile of coffee, with its earthy, nutty, and slightly bitter notes, pairs well with the rich flavor of chicken. Furthermore, by smoking your coffee rubbed chicken it infuses your chicken with an incredible smoky flavor that complements the coffee rub and creates a delicious and complex flavor profile.
Imparts a Crust: The coffee grounds in the rub create a crust on the chicken when it’s cooked, which adds a crispy and delicious texture to the meat.
Enhances the Texture: Smoking the chicken also helps to create a tender and juicy texture that is difficult to achieve with other cooking methods. The low and slow cooking process of smoking allows the chicken to absorb the flavors while retaining its moisture.
Health Benefits: Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and prevent chronic diseases. Additionally, chicken is a good source of protein, making coffee-rubbed chicken a healthy and flavorful meal option.
Even better, smoking is a healthier cooking method compared to frying or sautéing, as it does not require the use of additional oils or fats. Additionally, the low and slow cooking process of smoking allows the fat to render out of the chicken, resulting in a healthier dish.
Easy to Prepare: Making a coffee rub is a simple process that requires just a few ingredients, and once the chicken is coated in the rub, it’s easy to cook on the grill or in the oven.
Creates a Unique and Impressive Presentation: Smoking your coffee-rubbed chicken not only adds flavor but also creates an impressive presentation. The beautiful golden color of the smoked chicken, combined with the delicious aroma of coffee and smoke, makes for an impressive and memorable meal.
What Coffee Works Best For Coffee Rubbed Chicken?
When it comes to choosing coffee for coffee-rubbed chicken, it’s generally best to use dark roast coffee. Dark roast coffee has a more pronounced and robust flavor that pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken.
As for the type of coffee, you can use any coffee beans you prefer, as long as they are freshly roasted and of good quality. Some coffee beans have distinct flavors that can add an extra layer of complexity to the rub, such as Brazilian, Ethiopian, or Sumatran coffee beans. However, any dark roast coffee beans will work well for this recipe.
It’s also important to note that the coffee should be coarsely ground for the rub. Finely ground coffee can burn and become bitter when cooked, so it’s best to avoid using it.
Can You Use Instant Coffee For Coffee Rub For Chicken?
While it’s possible to use instant coffee for coffee-rubbed chicken, I do not recommend it. Instant coffee is made from pre-brewed coffee that has been freeze-dried or spray-dried into a powder form, which can result in a weaker and less complex coffee flavor compared to freshly ground coffee beans.
In addition, instant coffee often contains additives such as sugar and other flavorings that can affect the overall flavor of the rub. The texture of instant coffee may also affect the consistency of the rub, as it can make it more difficult to evenly coat the chicken.
Therefore, for the best results, I highly recommend you use freshly ground, high-quality dark roast coffee beans instead of instant coffee.
How Do I Prepare A Whole Chicken For Coffee Rub?
To prepare a whole chicken for smoking, I start by unpacking it in the sink and patting it dry. I do this to allow excess juice and packaging to be easily cleaned, before introducing the chicken to the preparation area.
Please note, while it’s common to wash chicken, it’s not necessary and can even spread bacteria. Instead, I make sure to wash my hands before and after handling the chicken and keep it separate from other foods to prevent cross-contamination. Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, it’s safe to eat.
If the chicken comes with giblets or a neck, I discard them as they are not needed for this recipe.
If desired, truss the chicken by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. This will help the chicken cook more evenly.
Once ready and dry, I like to season the chicken with my coffee dry rub seasoning, ensuring I season all the grooves and cavity, before wrapping it and refrigerating it overnight for maximum flavor.
What Rubs Or Seasoning Do You Use For Coffee Dry Rub Chicken?
You can use any off-the shelf dry coffee rubs, but personally I like to use my own coffee dry rub recipe. It is super simple to make, and you can easily tweak it to your preferred taste palette.
Ingredients For Smoked Coffee Dry Rub Chicken
- Whole Chicken (larger than 4.5lb)
- Dry Coffee Rub
How To Make Traeger Coffee Rubbed Whole Chicken
Prepare The Whole Chicken
Pat dry the chicken with a paper towel.
Pro Tip: Just lightly and patting it dry with a paper towel allows better friction for the dry rub to take hold.
Season The Whole Chicken
Season the chicken generously with the seasoning. Be sure to rub the seasoning into all the grooves and spaces between the wings and legs of the chicken. For an extra coffee crust, you can sprinkle addition freshly ground coffee beans over the top of the chicken rub evenly across the chicken.
Pro Tip: Adding some seasoning into the cavity of the chicken will ensure a consistent flavor throughout the cook. I like to season the chicken the night before a cook, but even an hour with provide enough time for the seasoning to take hold.
Rest The Chicken
Wrap the chicken either in a container, foil tin or cling wrap and allow it to rest.
Pro Tip: Let the chicken rest for at least an hour. I like to rest it overnight wrapped and placed in the refrigerator.
Pre-Heat Your Traeger Grill
When ready to cook preheat the grill to 375°F.
Tip: Ensure that the grills are placed such that there is plenty of room for the chicken, I like to remove the top shelf of my Ironwood850 to make it easier to access the chicken.
Place Your Chicken Into The Grill
Place the chicken directly on the grill.
Insert the smoker/BBQ thermometer probe into the breast of the chicken, trying to position the probe in the thickest section of breast.
Ensure the other end of your smoker/BBQ thermometer is connected to your Traeger (or thermometer and turned on).
Pro Tip: You can cook the chicken in an oven safe container to make transferring the chicken easier, but this will take away some of that smoky flavor.
Smoke
- Smoke your chicken until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. This should take 70-90 minutes.
- When the internal temperature reaches 140°F, increase the Traeger temperature to 400°F. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Pro Tip: Increasing the temperature for the last ~20 minutes will give the skin that lovely color and crispy texture.
Rest The Chicken
Once cooked remove the chicken from the grill and wrap in foil for an hour.
Carve
Once rested you can carve the chicken.
What To Serve With Coffee Rubbed Chicken
There are many delicious side dishes that pair well with coffee-rubbed chicken. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini
- Roasted sweet potatoes or mashed potatoes
- Quinoa or wild rice pilaf
- Coleslaw or a green salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Grilled or roasted corn on the cob
- Baked beans or black beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
For a complete meal, consider pairing the coffee-rubbed chicken with a complementary beverage, such as iced tea, beer, or a full-bodied red wine. And don’t forget dessert! A fruit tart, chocolate cake, or ice cream can be the perfect ending to a delicious meal.
FAQs On Coffee Rub On Chicken
Yes, a coffee rub does have a coffee flavor, but it’s not typically overpowering. When used as a rub for chicken or other meats, like my Traeger pork butt recipe, the coffee flavor is complemented by other spices and ingredients, such as garlic, paprika, and brown sugar, to create a balanced and complex flavor profile.
The coffee flavor in a rub can vary depending on the type of coffee used and the other ingredients in the rub. Some coffee beans have distinct flavor notes, such as chocolate, caramel, or fruity undertones, that can be highlighted in the rub. Additionally, the cooking method and temperature can affect the intensity of the coffee flavor.
Overall, a coffee rub can add a delicious and unique flavor to chicken or other meats, and it’s definitely worth trying if you’re a coffee lover looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite beverage.
Coffee is a versatile ingredient that can add several flavors and aromas to meat when used as a rub or marinade. When combined with other spices and ingredients, coffee can add a smoky and earthy flavor to meat, similar to the flavors of a good barbecue sauce. It can also enhance the sweetness of meats, especially when combined with ingredients such as brown sugar or maple syrup, creating a delicious balance of sweet and savory flavors. The natural acidity of coffee can add depth and complexity to the flavor profile of meat, and its natural enzymes can help tenderize the meat, making it more tender and juicy when cooked.
Most Loved Chicken Recipes
Smoked Rosemary Chicken Recipe – This twist on a classic roast chicken is one of my most loved whole smoked chicken recipes and a staple in our house!
Traeger Beer Can Chicken Recipe – My simple, no fuss method to produce perfectly moist, flavorsome chicken every time.
Traeger Smoked Orange Chicken – This Traeger whole chicken with orange recipe is the perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors with it’s zesty orange citrus kick!
Smoked Herbed Chicken – You are going to love this smoked herb chicken! It is has the vibes of a traditional roast chicken, with the smokey flavor we all crave! Crispy golden skin, moist and tender meat, infused with an incredible earthy, herbed flavor. It is straight up delicious!
Smoked Lemon Chicken – The perfect fusion of smoky flavors, along with a delightful lemon kick, makes it an ideal choice for any occasion, from weekend lunches to special celebrations. You can even add pepper like in my smoked lemon pepper chicken recipe for that extra special kick!
Or if you’re looking for a great beef recipe, I highly recommend checking out my Traeger Smoked Brisket!
Final Thoughts On Smoked Coffee Chicken
If you’re like me and love your coffee, then I’m sure my Traeger coffee rub chicken recipe is going to be a huge hit!
Not only does it add an incredible flavor and crust to your chicken, but it also helps to make it tender!
With this Traeger coffee rubbed chicken recipe, I’m confident you’ll have a delicious meal everyone will enjoy!
Smoked Coffee Rubbed Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Smoker/BBQ Thermometer
- 1 Heat resistant silicone gloves
Ingredients
- 1 4-5 pound Whole Chicken
- 3 tbsp Coffee Dry Rub Recipe This is my own easy to make coffee dry rub recipe however you can substitute it for your preferred chicken rub.
Instructions
- Pat dry the chicken with a paper towel.
- Season the chicken generously with the seasoning. Be sure to rub the seasoning into all the grooves and spaces between the wings and legs of the chicken. If you want an intense coffee taste or crust you can sprinkle some additional freshly ground coffee beans over the top of the chicken rub evenly across the chicken.
- Wrap the chicken either in a container, foil tin or clingwrap and allow it to rest.
- When ready to cook preheat the grill to 375°F.
- Place the chicken directly on the grill. Insert the smoker/BBQ thermometer probe into the breast of the chicken, trying to position the probe in the thickest section of breast. Ensure the other end of your smoker/BBQ thermometer is connected to your Traeger (or thermometer and turned on).
- Smoke your chicken until the internal temperature reaches 140°F. This should take 70-90 minutes.
- When the internal temperature reaches 140°F, increase the Traeger temperature to 400°F. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked remove the chicken from the grill and wrap in foil for an hour.
- Once cooled you can carve the chicken.