Shhh...Don't Tell My Dad

As I mentioned earlier today, Brandon broke out his Christmas smoker tonight for a test run before his b-day smoke-out on Saturday.  The first culprit was a whole chicken.  Brandon has spent the past few nights researching recipes, methods, and techniques.  And, I have to say it all paid off!  But, don't tell my dad because in his world, you can make dead chicken taste good.  Ever.

Here is the chicken, all rubbed down and ready to go, right as he put it in the smoker.

And here is a good shot of the setup.  See that cast iron skillet?  We searched long and hard for the perfect skillet for this venture.  And to think, I've been wanting a cast iron skillet for some time now and I'm forbidden to use this one...the nerve!

After about four hours, the bird was smoked to a crisp and ready to eat (no fear, the smoking started around 3:45)!  

I bet you wish you had stopped by our house for dinner, huh?  The meat was so moist and tender and had excellent flavor!  Brandon did a kick-butt job for his first attempt if you ask me.  I now  feel much more confident that we can whip up an excellent meal for his birthday this weekend. 

But Dad, if you're reading this, I want you to know that I used BBQ sauce on my meat.  You know, kind of like when Brandon puts A-1 on your steaks?!?