I need help fast please!

[tracik3]

We just bought a master forge gas smoker.  Its out seasoning right now.  I bought 2 whole chickens to try first. 

I have one in a salt and water brine.  The other I am going to use a rub on. 

I bought hickory chunks.  The book says this is a strong flavor.  So, how many do I use?  The book also says that you get the most smoke in the first hour.  So, do you add more after an hour? 

Thanks so much!

 

[r hagan]

I'm not at all familiar with gas smokers but I'd just put one in, check in an hour and see if it's burnt up and if so, throw another one in. 

There are a lot go members on here who can weigh in with far more knowledge than I can, but that's my 2 cents.

 

[sqwib]

Smoke flavor is subjective. Yes hickory can be strong for poultry so use it conservatively. How big are the chunks? How much smoke do you like? How quick will the chunks burn? Will a water pan be used? Will the poultry be dry?
Many things dictate smoke flavor.
I look at smoke as a flavoring and not a way to cook.
Smoke to me is just like any other ingredient and I use it as such.
But to answer your post, the safest way I would would be to only use a few chunks the first hour or so, then build on that over time so you can determine what you like.

 

[tracik3]

Thank you everyone for your help! The chickens turned out great!  I don't have time to post a picture today. I'm making our Thanksgiving diner today.  But, they looked like the other pictures I have seen posted on here.  We only tried one of them. The one with the rub. I used the rub recipe I found on here Billbo's rub.  I halved the salt though.  It was really good! 

It took 4 hours is that about right? Seemed a little long to me.  But, I'm not so sure the thermometer works right.  It stayed right around 250.  I looked at the mavericks on amazon.  I'm going to order one but waiting on free shipping. 

Also, it needed lots more smoke flavor.  I only used the two pieces.  We could only taste a little smoke in the legs and wings.  So, i will definitely use more next time.

So, I now this may be ambitious for a beginner. But, I'm doing a turkey today.  Wish me luck!!

 

[sqwib]

Great news.

Good luck and keep us posted.