Time to smoke a chicken?

[oldmandt]

How long will it take to smoke a whole 8 lb. chicken? I have a MES smoker.

 

[flash]

Until you reach 160º, although my wife prefers 180º. Usually around 2 1/2 to 3 hours tops.

 

[meateater]

I would spatchcock it which is taking out the backbone and laying flat skin side up. This way when it's done I like 160° personally you can crisp up the skin on the grill or broiler. Hope this helps. 

 

[oldmandt]

How long will it take to get to 160?

 

[venture]

What temp are you setting? What are your ambient temps? What is your altitude?  What kinds of winds might you deal with.

We do not cook to time, we cook to internal temp.

Good luck and good smoking.

 

[SmokinAl]

If you smoke it at 225, you are probably looking at 4 or 5 hours. This is just an estimate. It needs to be 165 in the thickest part of the breast & 175 in the thigh to be safe.