Cook chicken pieces over medium high heat around 325-350, flip every 3-5 minutes perfect every time. Chicken is not meant to be cooked indirect unless its a whole fryer.
Get the 26er and build a good table to your liking. The 26er is an awesome grill & smoker. I have had mine going on 5 years now...my 2 22" kettles and my wsm have been in retirement since getting the 26er.
Nice looking brisky...what are them brown turd looking things on top the the charcoal...need to add wood chunks for a smoke ring, charcoal alone will not give a smoke ring.
The 26er will not disappoint...its head over heels better than the 22...its great for grilling and especially smoking...fuel usage about the same as a 22...best of luck which ever kettle you choose.
Carl, what brand of charcoal are you using? I have noticed that the new KBB lights up faster but does not last near as long as the old good KBB. For direct cooking i now put the food on when coals just start to ash over. There is no need to preheat a weber kettle.