How to Bake Rotisserie Chicken on a Barbecue

Ready to take your barbecue game to the next level? Learning how to bake rotisserie chicken on a barbecue is as easy as a summer breeze. With the perfect balance of juicy tenderness and smoky flavor, it's like having your own rotisserie oven right in your backyard.

Follow these simple steps, and soon you'll be grilling up mouthwatering rotisserie chicken that will have your friends and family coming back for more.

So, grab your apron and fire up the grill, because you're about to master the art of rotisserie chicken on the barbecue. Let's get cooking!

Key Takeaways

• Select a chicken that is 4-5 pounds for even cooking and juiciness.
• Prepare a marinade with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and citrus juice.
• Set up the rotisserie properly and preheat the grill for indirect cooking.
• Grill the chicken at a consistent temperature of 350-375°F and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Selecting the Right Chicken

To ensure a delicious rotisserie chicken, you should start by selecting a fresh, plump chicken from your local market or butcher. When it comes to chicken size, aim for a bird that weighs around 4-5 pounds. This size ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and retains its juiciness. As for chicken quality, look for a chicken that has a healthy pinkish color, firm to the touch, and free from any off-putting odors. A good quality chicken will result in a more flavorful and succulent final dish.

When selecting your chicken, pay attention to the overall appearance. The skin should be unblemished and free from any tears or bruises. A plump breast and well-rounded thighs indicate a healthy and well-fed bird, which will contribute to a more satisfying meal. Additionally, if possible, opt for organic or free-range chickens for a richer flavor profile and a more ethical choice.

Preparing the Marinade

Now, prepare a flavorful marinade by combining olive oil, minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of citrus for a zesty kick. The marinade will infuse the rotisserie chicken with delicious flavors and keep it moist during the grilling process. Here's how to do it:

1. Marinade Ingredients:

• Start with 1/4 cup of olive oil as the base for your marinade.
• Add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic for a robust flavor.
• Mix in a generous amount of fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a fragrant and savory taste.
• Squeeze the juice of one lemon or orange into the mixture to add a refreshing citrusy tang.

1. Marinating Process:

• Place the raw chicken in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
• Pour the prepared marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's evenly coated.
• Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.

Setting Up the Rotisserie

Prepare the barbecue grill by attaching the rotisserie spit and securing the chicken onto it with the prongs. Make sure the rotisserie attachment is properly installed and that the spit is balanced to avoid any issues while cooking.

Once the chicken is secured, set up the barbecue for indirect cooking by preheating it to the appropriate temperature. For gas grills, preheat one side of the grill to the desired temperature, and for charcoal grills, arrange the coals to one side and leave the other side empty. This setup allows the chicken to cook evenly without direct heat, similar to the even cooking of a traditional rotisserie.

Maintaining the right barbecue temperature is crucial for achieving juicy and evenly cooked rotisserie chicken. Use a reliable meat thermometer to monitor the barbecue temperature throughout the cooking process, and make any necessary adjustments to the heat source to ensure it stays consistent.

With the rotisserie attachment in place and the barbecue set up for indirect cooking, you're ready to start the cooking process.

Grilling the Chicken

Once the barbecue is preheated and the rotisserie attachment is secured, you can place the chicken on the grill and start the cooking process.

1. Grilling techniques and flavor options: When grilling rotisserie chicken, you can experiment with different techniques to enhance flavor. Consider using wood chips or chunks for smoking, or try basting the chicken with a marinade or sauce to add extra layers of taste.
2. Temperature control and cooking time: Maintain a consistent grill temperature of around 350-375°F (175-190°C) for even cooking. A meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken should read 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's fully cooked. Depending on the size of the chicken, it typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to cook thoroughly.
3. Rotisserie adjustments: Keep an eye on the chicken as it cooks and make any necessary adjustments to the rotisserie speed or height to ensure it cooks evenly and develops a beautiful golden-brown color.
4. Flipping and checking for doneness: While the rotisserie does most of the work, it's a good idea to occasionally check the chicken for any hot spots and flip it halfway through the cooking process for uniform browning.

Checking for Doneness

To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken, ensuring it reads 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it's fully cooked. This is the safest way to ensure that your rotisserie chicken is both delicious and safe to eat. Remember that the internal temperature is key because it indicates that harmful bacteria, such as salmonella, are destroyed.

Once you've achieved the correct internal temperature, another way to double-check is to see if the juices running out of the chicken are clear, rather than pink. If there's any hint of pink or red in the juices, it's best to continue cooking the chicken. However, if the juices are clear and the internal temperature is at 165°F (74°C), your rotisserie chicken is ready to be taken off the grill.

Checking for doneness is a crucial step in ensuring a perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken. By paying attention to the internal temperature and the color of the juices, you can confidently serve a delicious and safe meal to your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Gas Grill Instead of a Charcoal Grill for Rotisserie Chicken?

Yes, you can use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill for rotisserie chicken. Gas grills are great for rotisserie cooking and provide a convenient option for achieving delicious rotisserie chicken on your barbecue.

How Can I Prevent the Chicken From Drying Out While It's Cooking on the Rotisserie?

To prevent the chicken from drying out on the rotisserie, baste it regularly with a flavorful marinade or sauce. Consider using a rotisserie technique that allows for indirect heat, and always monitor the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

Is It Necessary to Truss the Chicken Before Putting It on the Rotisserie?

You don't have to truss the chicken before putting it on the rotisserie, but it can help the bird cook more evenly. Trussing can also help maintain the chicken's shape and reduce the overall cooking time.

Can I Use a Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken Seasoning Instead of Making My Own Marinade?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought rotisserie chicken seasoning for convenience. It's a great option for adding flavor without the hassle of making your own marinade. Just make sure to apply it evenly for a delicious result.

What Are Some Tips for Carving the Rotisserie Chicken Once It's Done Cooking?

When it's time to carve your rotisserie chicken, let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Start by removing the legs, then slice the breast meat. Serve with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.