Smoked Cajun Chicken Recipe

This smoked Cajun chicken recipe delivers bold Southern flavor with a juicy, smoky twist. Starting with a spatchcocked US Wellness Meats whole chicken, the bird is rubbed down with olive oil or butter and generously coated in Cajun seasoning—either store-bought or a homemade blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic, herbs, and spices. Smoked low and slow over pecan or hickory wood at 275°F, the chicken develops a rich bark and deep flavor while staying tender inside. For extra crispiness, a quick blast in a hot oven finishes the skin to perfection. After a brief rest, the chicken is carved and served with a squeeze of lemon to brighten the spicy, smoky profile.

Recipe By: Damon Hargrove | @MeatGodEats

Ingredients:

• 1 US Wellness Meats whole chicken (3.5 to 5 lbs), spatchcocked Add to Cart
• 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter Add to Cart
• 3 to 4 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store bought or homemade)

Optional Homemade Cajun Rub:

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon each: cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Spatchcock the Chicken

Use kitchen shears to remove the backbone, then press down firmly on the breast to flatten. Pat dry. Dry skin means better bark and crisp.

2. Season Generously

Rub the bird all over with olive oil or butter, then coat generously with Cajun seasoning. Be sure to get under the skin where you can.

3. Smoke It Low and Slow

Set your smoker to 275°F with pecan or hickory wood. Place the chicken skin side up and smoke until internal temperature hits:

• 160°F in the breast
• 175°F in the thigh

This usually takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on bird size.

4. Optional: Crisp the Skin

Finish over high heat or in a 425°F oven for 5 to 10 minutes if you want that perfect crispy skin.

5. Rest and Serve

Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before carving. A squeeze of lemon adds a nice contrast to the Cajun spice.

A big thank you to our November Featured Chef, Damon Hargrove, for serving up serious Southern soul with his smoked Cajun chicken creation. Chef Damon shows us that great food is not just cooked, it is shared. It is the kind of recipe that fills the air with mouthwatering smoke, brings friends circling the table, and reminds everyone why gathering for a good meal never goes out of style. Hungry for more culinary inspiration like this? Visit our Discover Blog and keep the delicious ideas coming.