It can be tricky to cook duck breast well, but it is done to moist perfection with the reverse sear method, then finished with a mild bbq sauce to glaze.
Preheat a smoker to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C). Add the chunk of hickory wood.
Score the duck breast skin without cutting into the flesh.Tip: The scoring of the skin allows it to render easier without overcooking the duck meat.
Lightly season the duck with your favorite rub.Tip: Be careful not to overseason as duck breast is delicate meat that can be easily overpowered.
Place the duck breasts meat side down in the smoker and cook for approximately 10 minutes into the internal temperature is 120 degrees F (49 degrees C) or 10 degrees below your desired doneness temperature.
Preheat a griddle or skillet for searing. Sear the duck breast until it reaches your desired color. As the meat is already almost at the desired temperature from the smoking, this final step will provide the additional 10 degrees.
Brush with your preferred BBQ sauce then leaves to rest for 10 minutes.
To serve, slice the duck breast against the grain and plate it with risotto, vegetables, or an appropriate side dish.