For a gas grill, how many packages of wood chips do you put into the grill and do you have to change them out or do you just leave the same ones in there?
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wood chips how many foil packs to add
How many foil packs of wood you use depends on a few things. \
First, what are you smoking? For foods that cook quickly, like fish or small pieces of chicken, one packet might do the trick. However, if you're grilling a whole chicken or a chunk of brisket, you could easily use 3, 4, or more packets of wood. Larger sections of meat can handle more wood. Delicately flavored foods require less smoke.
Second, how smoky do you like your food? For this one, only you can tell. Safest way to know is to grill one particular item several times. First time, use just one packet. If it's not smokey enough for you, use two packs the next time. Use your judgement and your taste.
Third, what type of wood are you using? Hickory or mesquite? Those are stronger flavored woods and you'll need less. Alder or apple? These are lighter in flavor, so you can use more.
Once the wood is smoked out, I usually remove the packets when I add more, but it doesn't matter. If there's room, you can leave them all in until the food is done cooking and the grill has cooled down.
