How to remove and replace kitchen tile backsplash?
This is one of those jobs it could go either way. You could get lucky the tile will come off the wall easy or it will just be easier to remove and replace the wall board. If this was my job I would first tape around the cabinets and the countertop using painters tape and craft paper to protect the surfaces. Next I would start in an open space with a hammer and chisel to test how difficult they are to remove and how much damage the removal does to the wall.  I would most likely try my oscillating multi-tool with a flat blade running it behind the tile.  You will likely have some gouges in the wall board and some small humps were all the thinset was not removed.  If you have bad damaged areas repair these. I would then put a skim coat of thinset to smooth the surface and let dry before installing the new tile.  If you do have to remove the wall board you can just cut it around the cabinets.  You will have to install some deadwood in places before you replace the wall board.