Juicy and Flavorful BBQ Beer Can Chicken

5 stars
4.73 (18)
Juicy and Flavorful BBQ Beer Can Chicken
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
90 mins
Total Time:
110mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on September 02, 2023

This BBQ Beer Can Chicken recipe is a surefire way to impress your guests with its juicy and flavorful results. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices, placed on a beer can, and then cooked on the grill until tender and golden brown. The beer not only adds moisture to the chicken but also infuses it with a subtle hoppy flavor. Serve this mouthwatering dish at your next barbecue gathering and watch it disappear in no time!

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 can of beer

Directions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat, around 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Remove any giblets from the chicken, then rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
  4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin. Make sure to coat it evenly.
  5. Open the can of beer and take several sips (or pour out a small amount) to leave about half of the can full.
  6. Place the can on a solid surface, such as a cutting board or a sturdy dish. Carefully lower the chicken onto the can, so it stands upright with the can inserted into its cavity.
  7. Place the chicken, standing on the beer can, on the preheated grill. Cover the grill and allow the chicken to cook for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill, using heat-resistant gloves or tongs to hold the beer can steady. Be careful, as the beer can and steam will be very hot.
  9. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before removing it from the beer can. Carefully lift the chicken off the can and place it on a cutting board.
  10. Carve the chicken into desired pieces and serve hot. Enjoy!

Interesting Facts

  • Beer can chicken is also known as beer butt chicken or drunken chicken.
  • The beer can helps to keep the chicken moist while cooking and allows for even heat distribution.
  • The spices in the rub create a flavorful crust on the chicken skin.
  • This cooking method is often attributed to the southern region of the United States.