Smoked Lemon Pepper Chicken

This smoked lemon pepper chicken is full of flavor! I think it’s an incredible combination of perfectly smoked chicken with the tangy and zesty flavors of lemon and black pepper. And the best thing about this whole smoked chicken with lemon pepper is that is so simple to do – yet still sure to wow your guests.

I love how this chicken is incredibly tender and moist inside and has a delicious crispy skin that simply makes this lemon pepper smoked chicken recipe a winner!

This is such a delicious way to add a twist to your smoked whole chicken, perfect for a family meal or small gathering! And if you have any leftovers, it makes the most delicious chicken salad.

For this recipe, I like to use a zesty lemon pepper dry rub as I think it creates the perfect crispy skin texture over a wet rub.

I also prefer to simply stuff the chicken cavity with lemon, similar to my Traeger smoked orange chicken rather than use a chicken throne for this as per my smoked lemon chicken recipe as I find the lemon flavor is slightly more balanced without the chicken throne.

So, if you’re eager to elevate your chicken cooking skills and savor the delightful flavor of Traeger lemon pepper chicken, let’s ignite the smoker and begin the process.

And if you’re looking to get really fancy, you might want to even try my Traeger Beer Can Chicken.

Why Make Traeger Lemon Pepper Chicken?

If you’re seeking to elevate your chicken recipes, consider preparing smoked lemon pepper chicken for a delightful twist.

I love how this recipe infuses a sweet and tangy essence into your dish, setting it apart from the classic herbed smoked chicken. The fresh, citrusy taste through the incorporation of lemon juice and zest as well as a subtle heat and a slight kick from the black pepper is a fantastic combination.

Then I love to use my Traeger smoker for chicken dishes as it is so easy to use and imparts a smoky flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the sweet and tangy lemon pepper notes, culminating in an irresistible meal.

Here are additional persuasive factors that make smoked lemon pepper chicken a must-try:

• Flavorful Taste: Traeger lemon pepper chicken offers a delightful combination of tangy citrus from the lemon and the bold, aromatic kick of black pepper. The flavors blend together to create a mouthwatering taste that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken.
• Smoky Infusion: Cooking the chicken on a Traeger smoker adds a smoky element that takes the dish to a whole new level. The smoky flavor infuses into the meat, adding depth and complexity to each bite.
• Tender and Juicy: The slow cooking process in a smoker helps to tenderize the chicken, resulting in meat that is incredibly moist and juicy. The low and slow cooking method allows the chicken to cook evenly while retaining its natural juices.
• Versatility: Traeger lemon pepper chicken is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it as a main course alongside side dishes, use it as a filling in wraps or sandwiches, or incorporate it into salads or pasta dishes, the options are endless.
• Impress Your Guests: If you’re hosting a gathering or a barbecue, serving Traeger lemon pepper chicken is sure to impress your guests. The unique combination of flavors and the smoky aroma will make your dish stand out and leave a lasting impression.
• Cooking Experience: Making Traeger lemon pepper chicken gives you the opportunity to explore and enjoy the art of outdoor cooking. Using a smoker adds a fun and interactive element to the process, allowing you to engage with the cooking process and develop your skills as a grill master.

How Do I Prepare A Lemon Pepper Chicken?

To start, I prefer to unpack it over the sink to easily clean away any excess liquid or packaging. Depending on the source of the chicken, you may need to remove the neck or giblets from the cavity, which can be discarded since they are not necessary for this recipe.

I then pat dry the whole chicken with a paper towel as this helps for the dry rub to stick.

Once the chicken is dry and prepared, it’s time to season it according to your taste preferences.

Be sure to generously season all the crevices and the cavity for optimal flavor.

I then stuff the chicken cavity with quartered lemons and place lemon slices under each leg for an appealing presentation.

To allow the flavors to meld together, I recommend wrapping the seasoned chicken in a tray and refrigerating it overnight. This step ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat deeply, resulting in a more delectable final result.

What Rubs Or Seasoning Do You Use On Lemon Pepper Chicken?

You can use any off-the shelf lemon pepper rubs, personally I like to use my own mix of lemon pepper chicken rub to cover the chicken generously and then add on some grated lemon pepper zest. This adds texture to the already incredible zesty flavor.

To make a lemon pepper dry rub, you will need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the recipe I use to create my own lemon pepper dry rub:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons lemon zest (grated lemon peel)
• 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon salt (you can adjust the amount to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for added flavor)

What Are The Best Pellets For Smoker Lemon Pepper Chicken

Like with most chicken dishes, my personal preference is apple pellets. I prefer apple pellets as they impart a sweet and fruity flavor that pairs well with chicken. They are not too overpowering, so you get a great balanced taste.

However, when it comes to choosing the best pellets for smoking lemon pepper chicken, there are a few options that can enhance the flavor profile. Here are some recommended pellet flavors that pair well with the citrusy and peppery notes of lemon pepper chicken:

• Fruitwood Pellets: Fruitwood pellets, such as apple or cherry, are popular choices for smoking chicken. These pellets impart a mild and slightly sweet flavor that complements the tanginess of the lemon and the spiciness of the pepper.
• Pecan Pellets: Pecan pellets provide a rich and nutty flavor that pairs well with chicken. They add a depth of flavor to the lemon pepper chicken without overpowering it.
• Hickory Pellets: Hickory is a classic choice for smoking meats. It offers a strong and robust smoky flavor that can enhance the overall taste of the chicken. However, hickory can be intense, so it’s important to use it in moderation to avoid overpowering the lemon and pepper flavors.
• Alder Pellets: Alder pellets provide a mild and slightly sweet smoke flavor. They are commonly used for smoking poultry, including chicken. Alder pellets allow the lemon pepper flavors to shine while imparting a gentle smokiness to the meat.

Ultimately, the choice of pellets depends on personal preference and desired flavor intensity. It’s recommended to experiment with different pellet flavors to find the one that suits your taste preferences for smoked lemon pepper chicken.

Ingredients For Smoked Whole Chicken With Lemon Pepper

• Whole Chicken (larger than 4.5lb)
• Whole Fresh Lemon
• Salt
• Pepper
• Garlic Powder (optional, for added flavor)
• Onion Powder (optional, for added flavor)

How To Make Traeger Whole Chicken With Lemon Pepper

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

Apply a generous amount of the seasoning to the chicken, ensuring to massage it thoroughly into all the crevices and gaps between the wings and legs. Sprinkle the lemon zest evenly over the chicken, ensuring it covers the entire surface of the chicken.

Pro Tip: Be sure to grate the outside of 1 lemon pepper with a fine grater to collect the zest. Sprinkle this zest over the chicken for a generous and tasty flavor.

Fill The Cavity With Lemons

For this recipe I prefer cut the lemons into quarters and/or eighths. Start with the lemon that you have already zested. Use the lemon quarters to stuff the cavity of the chicken.

Once the quarters are in there push in some of the eighths of lemon to ensure that it is a nice tight fit.

If you want the extra wow factor, place a lemon quarter on each of the legs as this will add to the presentation.

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 200°F with super smoke on.

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

1. Smoke your chicken for 60 mins/1 hour.
2. After the 1 hour, increase the Traeger temperature to 350°F. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 140°F.
3. Once the internal temperature reaches 140°F, increase your Traeger temperature to 450°F until the internal temperature reaches 160°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 remove the lemon quarters from the cavity and carve the chicken.

Variations For Traeger Roasted Lemon Pepper Chicken

When it comes to variations for Traeger roasted lemon pepper chicken, there are several ways you can add unique twists to the recipe. Here are a few ideas to consider:

• Lemon Herb Butter: Prepare a compound butter by mixing softened butter with chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley, along with lemon zest and black pepper. Gently lift the chicken skin and spread the lemon herb butter directly onto the meat before roasting. This will infuse the chicken with a burst of herby, citrusy flavor.
• Citrus Glaze: Create a tangy and sweet glaze by combining lemon juice, honey or maple syrup, a pinch of salt, and a dash of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat. Brush the glaze over the chicken during the final minutes of cooking, allowing it to caramelize and create a glossy, flavorful finish.
• Smoked Lemon Slices: Enhance the presentation and aroma of the chicken by placing thin slices of lemon directly on top of the chicken skin before roasting. The heat from the Traeger will gently smoke the lemon slices, infusing the chicken with a delightful citrusy fragrance.
• Garlic Infusion: Introduce a savory depth of flavor by adding minced or roasted garlic to the lemon pepper seasoning. Mix the garlic with the lemon zest, black pepper, and salt, and then rub it onto the chicken. The combination of garlic and lemon will create a delicious marriage of flavors.
• Lemon Pepper Marinade: For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken in a lemon pepper marinade before roasting. Prepare a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, lemon zest, black pepper, minced garlic, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. Allow the chicken to marinate in the mixture for a few hours or overnight to tenderize and infuse it with a vibrant lemon pepper taste.

Remember to adjust cooking times and temperatures accordingly when applying variations to ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and reaches a safe internal temperature. Have fun experimenting with these ideas and customize the Traeger roasted lemon pepper chicken to suit your taste preferences.

What To Serve With A BBQ Lemon Pepper Chicken

When serving BBQ lemon pepper chicken, you have various options for side dishes that can complement and enhance the flavors of the chicken.

Here are some delicious choices that ideal for a delicious family meal or entertaining guests:

• Grilled Vegetables: Prepare a medley of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and eggplant. Season them with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grilling brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the chicken.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing and crunchy coleslaw is an excellent side dish for BBQ chicken. You can make a classic cabbage-based coleslaw or get creative by using different types of cabbage, adding shredded carrots, or incorporating fruits like apples or pineapple for a tangy twist.
• Corn on the Cob: Grill or roast corn on the cob and serve it alongside the chicken. Brush the corn with butter and sprinkle it with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice for added flavor.
• Potato Salad: A creamy and tangy potato salad is a classic BBQ side dish. Use boiled and cooled potatoes, and mix them with mayonnaise, mustard, chopped celery, red onions, and fresh herbs like parsley or dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Fresh Salad: Prepare a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your choice of additional vegetables. Drizzle it with a zesty vinaigrette or a creamy dressing to complement the flavors of the chicken.
• Garlic Bread or Cornbread: Offer some warm and crusty garlic bread or cornbread as a side to accompany the BBQ chicken. The bread provides a comforting element that pairs well with the smoky and zesty flavors.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve fluffy white rice or nutty quinoa as a simple and versatile side dish. Season it with herbs, lemon zest, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to tie in the citrusy notes of the chicken.

Remember to consider your guests’ dietary preferences and any specific flavor profiles you’d like to enhance when choosing your side dishes. Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal alongside your BBQ lemon pepper chicken.

FAQs On Smoked Whole Lemon Pepper Chicken Recipes

Most Loved Smoker Recipes

Smoked Lemon Herb Chicken – This smoked lemon herb chicken is full of flavor! It’s the perfect symphony of herbs, delicately infused with the gentle kiss of lemon.

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!

Smoked Chili Lime Chicken Recipe – This smoked chili lime chicken is a must for all the chili fans out there! With each bite, you’ll experience a harmonious balance of savory, spicy, and citrusy notes that will leave you craving more.

Smoked Coffee Rubbed Chicken Recipe – This recipe combines the rich, smoky flavor of smoked chicken with the unique taste of coffee.

Traeger Smoked Brisket – This recipe is perfect if you’re looking for an easy smoked brisket recipe that delivers a moist and tender brisket time after time!

Traeger Pork Butt – Picture a succulent, smoky pork butt slow-cooked to perfection on a Traeger grill. Tender, juicy meat infused with Traeger’s signature wood pellet flavors that simply melts in your mouth.

Final Thoughts On Smoked Lemon Pepper Chicken

I’m certain that my recipe for Traeger lemon pepper chicken will impress your family and friends and leave them wanting more!

The presentation is impressive, and the taste is absolutely amazing!

And in the case, you don’t have lemons on hand, feel free to substitute them with oranges or limes for a citrusy twist.

This Traeger pepper chicken with lemon recipe guarantees a flavorful and satisfying meal that will please everyone at the table!