Our Candy Apple Smoked Chicken Halves bring together juicy smoked chicken, a sweet apple butter glaze, and our Kinda Sweet BBQ Sauce for that perfect balance of smoky, tangy, and caramelized goodness. It’s the kind of backyard BBQ dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe licking their fingers too).
Directions
Quick Marinade/Brine
In a brining bag add ½ cup Sweet Tea brine, 2 tbsp Applewood rub, start with 1-2 cups of water. You want it to be less water than a true brine. Add chicken massage to incorporate marinade/brine remove air and seal tight. Place in fridge for 2-3 hours.
Smoked Chicken Halves
Set smoker to 275 – remove chicken halves and pat dry. Season all sides and under skin with Applewood Rub.
Place on smoker and smoke 1 ½ to 2 hours – internal temperature should be 160. In a bowl add 1 cup Kinda Sweet BBQ sauce, ¼ cup Apple Butter, and 1 tbsp Applewood rub.
Brush or pour sauce over chicken halves and place back on the smoker for 10-15 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken is 165 in the breast before removing. – Enjoy!