Grilling beer can chicken is a fun and delicious way to cook a whole bird that’s juicy on the inside with crispy, flavorful skin on the outside. This classic method involves roasting the chicken upright on a partially filled beer can, allowing the beer to steam the meat from within while the grill adds that irresistible smoky flavor. If you’ve ever wondered how to grill beer can chicken like a pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know – from prepping the bird to serving it hot off the grill.
What You’ll Need
– 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
– 1 can of beer (12 oz, your favorite kind)
– Olive oil
– A blend of spices: smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper for a little heat
– Grill (gas or charcoal)
– Meat thermometer
– Can opener or church key for poking holes in the beer can
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by removing any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Dry skin is key to getting that crispy, crackly skin everyone loves. Rub the entire outside of the chicken with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and encourage browning.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Mix your spices in a small bowl – a good combination is smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicy. Rub this seasoning mix all over the chicken, including inside the cavity, so every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Beer Can
Open the beer can and pour out (or drink!) about half of the beer. Using a can opener, punch a few extra holes in the top of the can to allow steam to escape during cooking. This helps the beer steam the chicken evenly from the inside.
Step 4: Mount the Chicken on the Beer Can
Carefully slide the chicken cavity down over the beer can so it sits upright. The chicken’s legs will form a tripod with the can, stabilizing the bird on the grill. Make sure it’s balanced and standing securely.
Step 5: Set Up Your Grill for Indirect Cooking
Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for about 325°F to 375°F. Set it up for indirect cooking by turning off one burner on a gas grill or arranging coals to one side on a charcoal grill. Place a drip pan under the grill grate if you want to catch drippings and avoid flare-ups.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken upright on the cooler side of the grill, over indirect heat, with the lid closed. Grill for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F. Avoid opening the lid frequently to keep the heat steady.
If the skin is browning too fast, move the chicken to a cooler spot on the grill to prevent burning.
Step 7: Crisp the Skin (Optional)
For extra crispy skin, increase the grill temperature to high for the last 10 minutes of cooking. This step helps render the fat and create that golden, crackly finish everyone loves.
Step 8: Rest the Chicken
Carefully remove the chicken from the grill using heat-resistant gloves or tongs. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before removing the beer can. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Gently wiggle the chicken off the beer can and carve it into pieces. Serve immediately with your favorite sides and enjoy the juicy, smoky flavor that only beer can chicken delivers.
Tips for the Best Beer Can Chicken
– Use a whole chicken between 3.5 and 5 pounds for even cooking.
– Dry the skin thoroughly before seasoning for crispy results.
– Use lighter beers like lagers or pilsners; avoid heavy stouts or porters which can overpower the flavor.
– Consider brining the chicken in beer and spices overnight for extra flavor and juiciness.
– Always cook over indirect heat to avoid burning the chicken’s bottom.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without drying out the bird.
Grilling beer can chicken is a crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with delicious results. With just a few simple steps, you can master this fun grilling technique and impress your friends and family with juicy, flavorful chicken every time.
Enjoy your next cookout with this classic recipe and savor the perfect balance of smoky, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat!