Beer can chicken is a fun and tasty way to grill a whole chicken. The beer inside the can steams the meat, making it juicy and full of flavor. Plus, it makes for a great conversation starter at barbecues!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want a chicken that looks like it’s celebrating? 😂 I love serving it with simple sides like corn and salad, making it a perfect weekend treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Whole Chicken: For the best flavor and texture, choose a fresh whole chicken weighing 3 to 4 pounds. If you prefer a smaller option, a Cornish hen works great too!
Beer: Any beer you enjoy will work. Light lagers are popular, but you can try stouts or ales for different flavors. If you don’t want to use beer, try soda or broth as a substitute for a smokier taste.
Olive Oil: This helps your seasoning stick and keeps the chicken moist. Feel free to use melted butter for a richer flavor or other oils like avocado or canola if desired.
Spices: Paprika gives a nice color and warmth. If you don’t have it, smoked paprika adds a different taste. For a punchy flavor, replace garlic and onion powders with fresh minced garlic and onion. Brown sugar balances out the spices; you can swap it with honey or maple syrup.
Fresh Herbs: I love to use rosemary or thyme as garnish, but parsley or even cilantro can work too. It adds a nice pop of color and flavor!
How Do You Achieve Crispy Skin on Your Chicken?
Crispy skin is key to this dish! Start by drying the chicken thoroughly with paper towels; this removes moisture. Don’t skip this step! After applying olive oil, coat the chicken well with your spice mix, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
- Patting the chicken dry is golden for crispiness.
- Rub the oil and spices generously; don’t hold back!
- Cooking on a medium heat grill allows the skin to crisp while the inside stays juicy. Check the temperature; it should be around 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Beer Can Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (3 to 4 pounds)
- 1 can of beer (12 ounces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Spice Rub:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Beer Can Chicken takes about 15 minutes to prep and 1 to 1.5 hours to cook on the grill. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes before you can dig into this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparation:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, which is around 350°F (175°C). While the grill is heating, take your whole chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Drying it well helps achieve that perfect crispy skin when it cooks!
2. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). Blend the spices together until they’re well combined. This will add a ton of flavor to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Rub olive oil all over the chicken to help the spices stick, then generously coat the chicken with the spice mixture, making sure it gets into every nook and cranny for full flavor. Your chicken will look delicious already!
4. Prepare the Beer Can:
Now, it’s time for the beer! Open the beer can and take a few sips, or pour out a little (or you could use a beer can chicken holder if you have one handy). This will give the chicken some tasty steam as it cooks!
5. Position the Chicken on the Grill:
Insert the beer can into the cavity of the chicken carefully so it stands upright. Then, place the chicken upright on the grill grates. Close the lid to keep the heat in as it cooks.
6. Cooking Time:
Cook the chicken for about 1 to 1.5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the thigh. It’s a good idea to use a meat thermometer to check this.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the chicken off the grill and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices settle. When ready, carefully remove the beer can (watch out for the steam!). Garnish with fresh herbs if you like, carve the chicken, and enjoy your amazing beer can chicken!
Can I Use a Different Type of Alcohol Instead of Beer?
Absolutely! While beer is traditional, you can substitute it with other canned beverages like soda (for sweetness) or hard cider for a fruity flavor. Just remember to adjust the spice rub if you’re using a flavored drink to complement the tastes!
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Done Cooking?
The best way to check is to use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when you pierce the meat.
Can I Prepare the Chicken in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken with the olive oil and spice mix several hours ahead of time or even overnight. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
What Are the Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave it on low or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy it sliced on sandwiches or added to salads!
