The brackets are set, the rivalries are heating up, and college basketball fans are gearing up for the most exciting time of the year. Much like the teams preparing for the next round of March Madness, you need a solid game plan for your backyard. Hosting a watch party requires great food that keeps everyone energized from tip-off to the final buzzer.
Nothing brings a crowd together quite like the rich, mouth-watering aroma of barbecue drifting through the air. Serving up a platter of perfectly smoked chicken is a surefire way to win over your guests, regardless of which team they are cheering for. It is a fan favorite that delivers incredible flavor without keeping you tied to the grill all afternoon.
At Carolina Hearth & Patio, we know that great food starts with great equipment. We are Spartanburg’s premier dealer for all your outdoor patio needs, and we love helping our community make the most of their outdoor living spaces. With a Big Green Egg and a few quality ingredients, you can easily create a championship-worthy meal. Grab your favorite team jersey, fire up the smoker, and get ready to serve up a winning dish.
Why the Big Green Egg is a Game Changer
If you want to achieve authentic barbecue flavor, the Big Green Egg is the ultimate tool for the job. This ceramic kamado-style grill is famous for its unmatched temperature control and heat retention. It allows you to smoke meats low and slow, ensuring every bite is incredibly tender and juicy.
The thick ceramic walls lock in moisture, meaning your chicken will never dry out during the cooking process. Plus, the ability to easily adjust the airflow gives you precise control over the heat. Whether you are a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller, the Big Green Egg makes it simple to produce flawless results every single time.
Gear Up at Carolina Hearth & Patio
Before you send out the invites for your watch party, make sure you have everything you need. Carolina Hearth & Patio is your one-stop shop for high-quality outdoor essentials. We carry a wide selection of grills, smokers, and accessories to help you elevate your cooking game.
Stop by our showroom to stock up on premium lump charcoal, smoking chips, and authentic Big Green Egg seasonings and sauces. Caleb Marlowe and our friendly team are always here to provide top-notch customer service and share expert advice. We have been a trusted part of the community for years, and we are dedicated to building lasting relationships with our neighbors.
The Ultimate March Madness Smoked Chicken Recipe
This recipe is simple, straightforward, and packed with flavor. While the title mentions wings, using quartered chicken provides generous portions that easily feed a hungry crowd of basketball fans. You can also easily adapt this recipe to chicken wings if you prefer bite-sized appetizers.
Ingredients
- 5 lbs. quartered chicken (or chicken wings)
- Big Green Egg Savory Pecan Seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Big Green Egg Sweet & Smoky Kansas City Style Barbecue Sauce
Equipment
- Premium Kiln Dried Apple Wood Smoking Chips
- convEGGtor®
March Madness Smoked Wings
Proper execution is just as important in the backyard as it is on the basketball court. Follow these straightforward steps to smoke your chicken to perfection.
- Prepare the Smoker
Start by setting your Big Green Egg for indirect cooking. Insert the convEGGtor to block the direct flames and create an oven-like environment inside the grill. Bring the temperature to a steady 275ºF (135ºC) and add a handful of your Premium Kiln Dried Apple Wood Smoking Chunks to the hot coals. The apple wood will impart a mild, fruity smoke flavor that pairs perfectly with poultry. - Season the Chicken
While the grill is coming up to temperature, prepare your chicken. Pat the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. Rub the quartered chicken evenly with the olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes a crispy skin. Liberally apply the Big Green Egg Savory Pecan Seasoning all over the meat. - Smoke the Meat
Place the seasoned chicken directly on the grill grate. Close the dome and let the Big Green Egg do the hard work. Smoke the chicken for about 45 minutes to an hour. You are looking for an internal temperature of 145ºF (62ºC). - Baste with Barbecue Sauce
Once the chicken reaches 145ºF, it is time to add a layer of sticky, sweet flavor. Generously baste the chicken with the Big Green Egg Sweet & Smoky Kansas City Style Barbecue Sauce. - Finish the Cook
Allow the chicken to cook for another 20 to 30 minutes. This gives the barbecue sauce enough time to caramelize and form a beautiful, tasty glaze. - Check the Temperature
Safety and quality go hand in hand. Remove the chicken from the Egg once an instant-read meat thermometer shows an internal temperature of 160ºF (71ºC). - Rest and Serve
Let the chicken cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every single bite is tender. Serve alongside your favorite game-day sides, like coleslaw, potato salad, or macaroni and cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smoking Chicken
Can I use chicken wings instead of quartered chicken?
Absolutely. Chicken wings are a classic game-day staple and work wonderfully with this recipe. Keep in mind that wings are smaller and will cook faster than quartered chicken. Check the internal temperature earlier to avoid overcooking them.
Why use apple wood chips?
Apple wood provides a subtle, sweet smoke profile that enhances the natural flavor of the chicken without overpowering it. It pairs exceptionally well with the sweet and savory notes of the Pecan Seasoning and Kansas City Style Barbecue Sauce.
Do I really need a convEGGtor?
Yes. The convEGGtor is essential for indirect cooking on the Big Green Egg. It acts as a heat shield, preventing the direct flames from charring the outside of your chicken before the inside is fully cooked. It is the secret to true low-and-slow barbecue.
Join the Carolina Hearth & Patio Community
Great food is meant to be shared. We want to see how your March Madness smoked chicken turns out! Be sure to take some smokin’ pictures of your game-day feast and tag Carolina Hearth & Patio on our social media channels.
If you need any supplies, accessories, or just want to chat about barbecue, come visit our showroom. We are always thrilled to talk shop and help you find the perfect products for your home. Experience the warmth, reliability, and top-tier customer service that Spartanburg has trusted for decades. Call us at 864.599.5215 or stop by today—let’s create something special for your home.
Carolina Hearth & Patio is a family owned business committed to the community. We truly consider our customers as if they are part of the family. Be sure to connect and stay informed of what is happening in our community. Find and follow us on our social media channels.
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