How to Grill Rotisserie Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

2. Preparing the Chicken

Proper preparation is key to ensuring your chicken cooks evenly and absorbs flavor throughout.

Step 1: Choose the Right Chicken

Opt for a whole chicken weighing 3-5 pounds, as this size cooks most evenly on a rotisserie.

Step 2: Truss the Chicken

Trussing the chicken ensures the legs and wings stay close to the body, promoting even cooking. Use butcher’s twine to tie the legs together and secure the wings against the body.

Step 3: Season Generously

Season both the inside and outside of the chicken. Use a combination of:

• Salt and Pepper: The foundation of flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme work well.
• Optional Marinade: Marinate the chicken overnight in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for extra flavor.

3. Setting Up the Grill for Rotisserie Cooking

Grilling rotisserie chicken requires an indirect heat setup.

Arteflame Advantage

The flat-top griddle surrounding the center grill grate provides an ideal heat zone for rotisserie cooking. The center grate can hold a drip pan, while the outer area maintains consistent heat.

Steps to Set Up:

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (350°F-375°F).
2. Place a Drip Pan: Position a drip pan under the chicken to catch juices and prevent flare-ups.
3. Prepare the Rotisserie Spit: Skewer the chicken securely on the rotisserie spit, ensuring it’s balanced for even rotation.

4. Grilling the Rotisserie Chicken

Step 1: Mount the Spit

Attach the rotisserie spit to your grill, ensuring the chicken rotates evenly. Close the grill lid or maintain a steady heat environment.

Step 2: Monitor the Heat

Keep the temperature between 350°F-375°F. Adjust as needed to ensure the chicken cooks evenly without burning.

Step 3: Baste for Extra Flavor

For added richness, baste the chicken with melted butter, olive oil, or a flavorful marinade every 20-30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and promotes a golden, crispy skin.

5. Cooking Time and Doneness

A 3-5 pound chicken typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours to cook on the rotisserie. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to perfection:

• Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, avoiding the bone.
• The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F in the thigh and 170°F in the breast.

6. Resting the Chicken

Resting is essential to keeping the chicken juicy.

• Remove the chicken from the rotisserie spit and place it on a cutting board.
• Tent it with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

7. Carving and Serving

Carve the chicken into portions, starting with the legs and thighs, then moving to the wings and breasts. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

8. Perfect Pairings for Rotisserie Chicken

Enhance your rotisserie chicken with these grill-friendly sides:

• Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers grilled on the Arteflame’s flat-top griddle.
• Corn on the Cob: Brush with butter and grill until charred.
• Roasted Potatoes: Toss with olive oil and rosemary, then cook on the flat-top for a crispy finish.
• Homemade Gravy: Use the drippings from the drip pan for a rich, flavorful gravy.

The Final Spin

Grilling rotisserie chicken combines the juiciness of slow cooking with the smoky flavor of grilling. The Arteflame Grill makes this process simple and rewarding, offering consistent heat and an easy setup. By following these tips, you can create a mouthwatering rotisserie chicken that’s the star of any backyard meal.

So fire up your grill, grab your rotisserie kit, and enjoy the ultimate grilled rotisserie chicken.