Beer can chicken is a fun and delicious way to cook a whole chicken that results in juicy, tender meat with crispy skin. This method involves placing a partially filled beer can inside the chicken cavity and cooking it upright on a grill or in the oven. The beer steams the chicken from the inside, keeping it moist and infusing it with subtle flavor. If you’ve never tried it, here’s a friendly, easy-to-follow guide on how to cook beer can chicken perfectly every time.
What You’ll Need
– Whole chicken (about 4 to 5 pounds)
– 1 can of beer (12 ounces, half-full)
– Olive oil or another cooking oil
– Dry rub or seasoning (paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne for heat)
– Grill or oven
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Beer Can Chicken
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by removing the giblets from inside the chicken and rinsing it under cold water. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels, including inside the cavity. This helps the skin crisp up nicely during cooking.
Next, rub the chicken all over with olive oil. This not only helps the seasoning stick but also promotes crispy skin. Then, generously apply your dry rub or seasoning mix all over the chicken, including inside the cavity. Popular seasonings include paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat.
2. Prepare the Beer Can
Open a can of beer and pour out (or drink!) about half of it. The remaining beer will steam inside the chicken as it cooks, keeping the meat moist and tender.
3. Mount the Chicken on the Beer Can
Hold the chicken upright by the legs and carefully lower it onto the beer can so the can fits inside the cavity. The chicken should stand upright on its own, supported by the beer can and the chicken’s legs.
4. Cooking Methods
You can cook beer can chicken either on a grill or in the oven.
Grill Method
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
– Set up for indirect cooking: if using a gas grill, turn on only half the burners.
– Place the chicken upright in the center of the grill, close the lid, and cook for about 60 to 75 minutes.
– Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; the chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
– Let the chicken rest for 5 to 10 minutes before carving.
Oven Method
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Place the chicken upright on a baking pan or roasting dish.
– Bake for 60 to 80 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
– If the skin browns too quickly, tent the chicken loosely with foil and remove it during the last 15 minutes to crisp up.
– Rest the chicken for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Beer Can Chicken
– Seasoning: Feel free to customize your dry rub. For a smoky flavor, add smoked paprika and cumin. For a more herbal aroma, try thyme, rosemary, or sage.
– Beer Alternatives: If you don’t have beer or prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute soda, root beer, or even canned juice. These liquids will also steam the chicken and keep it moist.
– Standing the Chicken: The chicken stands upright because the beer can fits snugly inside the cavity, supported by the legs. Make sure the can is stable on a flat surface before cooking.
– No Need to Baste: One of the best parts about beer can chicken is that it requires minimal attention while cooking. Just let it cook undisturbed, and you’ll have juicy chicken with crispy skin.
Why Beer Can Chicken?
This cooking method is popular because it combines roasting and steaming, resulting in chicken that’s juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The beer vapor infuses the meat with subtle flavors and keeps it moist without the need for constant basting or turning. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends at a barbecue or family dinner with minimal effort.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your beer can chicken with simple sides like steamed vegetables, grilled corn, or a fresh salad. The crispy skin and juicy meat pair wonderfully with classic barbecue sides or light, healthy veggies for a balanced meal.
Beer can chicken is a delicious, easy, and fun way to cook a whole chicken that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try on your grill or in the oven, and you might just find your new favorite chicken recipe!
Enjoy your meal!