How to Cook a Rotisserie Chicken on a Weber Grill Charcoal Grill

You've mastered the art of grilling, but have you ever tried your hand at cooking a rotisserie chicken on your Weber charcoal grill? The rich smokiness from the charcoal infuses the meat, creating a depth of flavor that is simply unmatched.

But before you can sink your teeth into that succulent, perfectly roasted chicken, there are a few key steps you need to take to ensure the best results.

So, grab your apron and let's get started on this mouthwatering journey to crafting the perfect rotisserie chicken on your trusty Weber grill.

Selecting the Right Rotisserie Attachment

When selecting the right rotisserie attachment for your Weber grill, consider the size and weight capacity of the attachment to ensure it can accommodate the size of the chicken you intend to cook. Opting for a rotisserie attachment with a higher weight capacity provides flexibility to cook larger chickens or even other meats. It's essential to choose an attachment that securely fits onto your specific Weber grill model, ensuring stability and safety during the grilling process.

Opting for a heavy-duty stainless steel rotisserie attachment is often a wise choice as it offers durability and ease of cleaning. Additionally, look for features such as adjustable spit rods and forks to accommodate various sizes of poultry or roasts.

When it comes to optimal grilling techniques, ensure the rotisserie attachment is properly installed and balanced before igniting the grill. Keeping a close eye on the cooking progress is crucial. Position the chicken in the center of the grill, and utilize indirect heat for even cooking. Remember to baste the chicken periodically to lock in moisture and enhance flavor.

Preparing the Chicken for Grilling

Before you start grilling, it's important to prepare the chicken properly.

Begin by seasoning the chicken with your favorite herbs and spices to infuse it with flavor.

Then, truss the chicken to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.

Seasoning the Chicken

For flavor-packed rotisserie chicken, there are a few key steps you can take to ensure a delicious result. First, consider using a brining technique or marinating the chicken beforehand to infuse it with extra flavor and moisture. If you choose to brine, submerge the chicken in a solution of water, salt, and sugar for a few hours before grilling. When marinating, let the chicken soak in a mixture of oil, acid (like lemon juice or vinegar), and seasonings for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator.

To season the chicken, generously rub it with a blend of your favorite herbs and spices. Make sure to coat both the exterior and interior of the bird to ensure that the flavors penetrate the meat. One helpful tip is to loosen the skin and rub the seasoning directly onto the flesh. This step sets the stage for a mouthwatering, aromatic rotisserie chicken.

Trussing the Chicken

To prepare the chicken for grilling, trussing it with kitchen twine will help ensure even cooking and a beautifully balanced shape on the rotisserie. Trussing involves tying the chicken securely with kitchen twine to keep the wings and legs close to the body. This not only helps the chicken cook evenly but also prevents the extremities from burning on the grill.

Start by placing the chicken on a clean surface, then tuck the wings behind the back and tie the twine around the wings and body, securing them together. Next, tie the twine around the legs, pulling them close to the body. Finally, secure the twine with a knot.

Trussing not only aids in even cooking but also makes for an attractive presentation. These trussing techniques will ensure your chicken cooks perfectly on the rotisserie.

Preheating the Grill

Start by lighting a chimney starter filled with charcoal briquettes, and allow them to heat until covered with a light ash, ensuring a consistent and steady heat for grilling your rotisserie chicken.

As you prepare to preheat the grill, consider the following:

• Grill Maintenance: Keep your grill clean and free from grease buildup to prevent flare-ups and ensure even heat distribution.
• Charcoal Types: Choose high-quality charcoal that suits your grilling needs, whether it's briquettes for longer, steady heat or lump charcoal for quick, intense heat.
• Rotisserie Safety: Ensure the rotisserie spit is securely in place and balanced to prevent any accidents during cooking.
• Heat Distribution: Arrange the charcoal evenly to create a balanced heat distribution for cooking the chicken thoroughly and evenly.

These steps will ensure that your grill is prepped and ready to cook a mouthwatering rotisserie chicken.

Setting Up the Weber Charcoal Grill

Now let's get your Weber charcoal grill set up for that delicious rotisserie chicken!

Start by arranging the charcoal in a pyramid shape for even heat distribution, and then light it up.

Make sure to position the air vents for optimal airflow to control the temperature inside the grill.

It's time to get things fired up and ready for some tasty grilling!

Charcoal Arrangement

Consider arranging the charcoal in a two-zone setup to control the cooking temperature and achieve the best results for your rotisserie chicken on the Weber charcoal grill. This arrangement allows for direct and indirect heat, giving you more control over the cooking process.

• Charcoal Distribution: Spread the charcoal evenly on one side of the grill, creating a hot zone for searing and a cooler zone for gentle cooking.
• Heat Control: Adjust the charcoal quantity to regulate the temperature. More charcoal means higher heat, while less charcoal lowers the temperature.
• Rotisserie Cooking Techniques: Utilize the indirect heat zone for rotisserie cooking, ensuring even and juicy results.
• Flavor Infusion: Add wood chips to the charcoal for a smoky flavor that will enhance the taste of your rotisserie chicken.

Air Vents Positioning

To optimize the grilling process for your rotisserie chicken on the Weber charcoal grill, ensure that the air vents are positioned to allow for efficient airflow and temperature control. Proper positioning of the air vents is crucial for controlling the temperature inside the grill. Here's a simple guide to help you understand how to position the air vents for different temperature needs:

Air Vent Position	Temperature Control
Fully Open	High Heat
Half Open	Medium Heat
Fully Closed	Low Heat

Securing the Chicken on the Rotisserie Spit

Secure the chicken onto the rotisserie spit by sliding the prongs through the body cavity and securing the wings and legs with the provided clips. This ensures that the chicken is firmly attached and will rotate evenly, allowing for uniform cooking and optimal heat distribution.

• Balanced Load: Position the chicken evenly on the spit to maintain balance, preventing the motor from straining and ensuring a smooth rotation.
• Proper Prong Placement: Slide the prongs through the body cavity, ensuring they're securely in place to prevent any wobbling during the cooking process.
• Wing and Leg Security: Use the provided clips to secure the wings and legs tightly to the spit, preventing them from moving excessively during rotation.
• Even Weight Distribution: Ensure that the weight of the chicken is evenly distributed along the length of the spit to promote stability and balanced rotation.

Monitoring and Adjusting the Grill Temperature

When using a Weber charcoal grill to cook a rotisserie chicken, it's important to monitor and adjust the grill temperature to ensure even and thorough cooking. Controlling the temperature of your grill is essential for achieving that perfect rotisserie chicken—crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Here are some tips for heat management to help you achieve grilling perfection.

Tips for Controlling Temperature	Description
Use a chimney starter	This method ensures even distribution of hot coals to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the grilling process.
Adjust the vents	Opening the vents allows more oxygen in, increasing the heat, while closing them reduces the airflow, thus lowering the temperature. It's a simple way to fine-tune the heat.
Add or remove coals	If you need to increase the heat, add more coals. Conversely, if the temperature is too high, remove some coals to bring it down. This allows you to easily adjust the heat as needed.

Carving and Serving the Perfect Rotisserie Chicken

After managing the grill temperature to ensure your rotisserie chicken is perfectly cooked, the next step is mastering the art of carving and serving it to perfection. When it comes to carving techniques, follow these tips for a flawless presentation:

• Let it rest: Allow the rotisserie chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing it from the grill. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender bird.
• Find the joints: Locate the joints connecting the thighs and wings to the body. Cut through these joints to remove the legs and wings easily.
• Slice against the grain: When carving the breast meat, slice against the grain for tender pieces. Use a sharp knife and make even, smooth cuts.
• Serve with flair: Consider presenting the carved chicken on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or citrus wedges for a visually appealing and flavorful touch.

For serving suggestions, pair the rotisserie chicken with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or warm dinner rolls. You can also offer a selection of sauces or dips to complement the smoky flavors.

Mastering the art of carving and serving your rotisserie chicken will elevate your grilling expertise and impress your guests. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill to cook a rotisserie chicken. Gas grills offer a convenient and efficient alternative for cooking rotisserie chicken, providing consistent heat and flavorful results.

How Do I Know When the Chicken Is Done Cooking on the Rotisserie?

To know when the rotisserie chicken is done, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C). Also, ensure the juices run clear when pierced. This ensures juiciness and doneness. Enjoy your perfectly cooked rotisserie chicken!

Can I Add Wood Chips to the Charcoal for Extra Flavor?

Yes, you can add wood chips to the charcoal for extra flavor. They infuse the chicken with a delicious smoky taste. Many prefer charcoal for rotisserie chicken as it imparts a richer flavor compared to a gas grill.

What Should I Do if the Chicken Skin Is Getting Too Dark During Grilling?

If the chicken skin is getting too dark during grilling, try adjusting the temperature by lowering the heat or using indirect heat. You can also employ rotisserie techniques like rotating the chicken to ensure even cooking.

Can I Use a Marinade or Rub on the Chicken Before Putting It on the Rotisserie Spit?

Yes, you can use a marinade or rub on the chicken before putting it on the rotisserie spit. Marinade options and seasoning alternatives can add delicious flavors and enhance the taste of your rotisserie chicken.