Beer can chicken is a crowd-pleasing barbecue dish where a whole chicken is roasted with a partially filled can of beer, creating a moist and tender bird with crispy, golden skin. The steam from the beer keeps the meat juicy, while the spices add flavor. This method works on the grill or in the oven, and is perfect for summer cookouts or family dinners.
Equipment:
- Grill or oven
- Roasting pan (if using an oven)
- Beer can (half full)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Large plate or tray
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds), giblets removed
- 1 can of beer (12 ounces), half full
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for added spice
Instructions:
- Preheat the Grill or Oven
Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F). If using an oven, preheat to 375°F and prepare a roasting pan. - Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and cayenne if using. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. - Prepare the Beer Can
Open the can of beer and pour out (or drink!) about half. Carefully insert the open can into the cavity of the chicken so it can sit upright with the legs pointing down, forming a tripod. - Grill or Roast the Chicken
Place the chicken upright on the grill grate (or in the oven on a roasting pan). Close the grill lid and cook for 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. If using an oven, bake for about 1 ½ hours. - Rest and Serve
Carefully remove the chicken from the grill or oven using tongs (the can will be hot!). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before gently removing the can. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the chicken on a wooden board with grilled vegetables on the side.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a rustic touch.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue sauce, ranch, or a lemon-garlic aioli for extra flavor.
Tips:
- Use a can of beer with mild flavor so it doesn’t overpower the chicken. Lagers or pilsners work well.
- Make sure the grill maintains an even temperature for consistent cooking.
- If using an oven, place the chicken on a sturdy roasting pan to catch any drips.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it moist when carving.
Beer can chicken is a unique, flavorful way to enjoy roasted chicken with juicy, tender meat and crispy skin. This easy recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or family gatherings, bringing everyone together with its rich, smoky aroma and delicious taste. Enjoy this dish with sides like coleslaw, grilled corn, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Beer Can Chicken Recipe
This beer can chicken recipe yields a juicy, flavorful bird with crispy skin and tender meat. It’s an easy way to add smoky, beer-infused goodness to your next barbecue!
Equipment
- Grill or oven
- Roasting pan (if using an oven)
- Beer can (half full)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Large plate or tray
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken about 4-5 pounds, giblets removed
- 1 can of beer 12 ounces, half full
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for added spice
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill or Oven
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F). If using an oven, preheat to 375°F and prepare a roasting pan.
- Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, thyme, and cayenne if using. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
- Prepare the Beer Can
- Open the can of beer and pour out (or drink!) about half. Carefully insert the open can into the cavity of the chicken so it can sit upright with the legs pointing down, forming a tripod.
- Grill or Roast the Chicken
- Place the chicken upright on the grill grate (or in the oven on a roasting pan). Close the grill lid and cook for 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. If using an oven, bake for about 1 ½ hours.
- Rest and Serve
- Carefully remove the chicken from the grill or oven using tongs (the can will be hot!). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before gently removing the can. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
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