Juicy BBQ Chicken and Beer: The Ultimate Grilled Whole Chicken Recipe

Ultimate BBQ Chicken and Beer: The Perfect Grilled Beer Can Chicken

There’s nothing quite like the juicy, smoky flavor of bbq chicken and beer combined in one incredible dish. This beer can chicken recipe takes outdoor grilling to a new level by using a can of your favorite brew to create the most tender, flavorful bird you’ve ever tasted. The steam from the beer keeps the chicken moist from the inside while the grill creates a crispy, perfectly seasoned exterior.

Why Beer Can BBQ Chicken Works So Well

The magic of this recipe lies in the cooking method. The beer creates steam inside the cavity of the chicken, infusing it with flavor while keeping the meat incredibly juicy. Meanwhile, the upright position allows fat to drip away, and the heat circulates evenly around the bird for perfect browning on all sides.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 75 minutes
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings

What You’ll Need for Perfect BBQ Chicken and Beer

Ingredients for the Chicken Rub

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil

For the Beer Component

• 1 can (12 oz) of your favorite beer (lagers and amber ales work great)
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 sprig rosemary

Step-by-Step BBQ Chicken and Beer Instructions

1. Preheat your charcoal or gas grill for medium-high heat, aiming for approximately 375°F (190°C). If using a charcoal grill, set up for indirect cooking with coals on the sides.
2. Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and thoroughly rinse the chicken inside and out. Pat dry with paper towels for better seasoning adherence and crispy skin.
3. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
4. Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, then generously apply the spice mixture, making sure to cover all surfaces including under the wings and inside the cavity.
5. Open the beer can and drink (or pour out) about 1/4 of the beer. Add the crushed garlic cloves and rosemary sprig into the can.
6. Place the beer can on a solid surface and carefully lower the chicken onto it, inserting the can into the cavity so the chicken sits upright like it’s “sitting” on the can.
7. Balance the chicken on the grill using the legs and the can to form a tripod. Position it over indirect heat.
8. Close the grill lid and cook for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh reads 165°F (74°C).
9. Carefully remove the chicken from the grill, still on the beer can. Let it rest for 10 minutes before removing the can and carving the bird.
10. Carve and serve with your favorite BBQ sides for a complete meal.

Expert Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken and Beer Recipe

• Choose the right beer: Lagers, pilsners, and amber ales work wonderfully, but avoid IPAs or very bitter beers as they might impart too much bitterness.
• Room temperature chicken: Let your chicken sit out for about 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
• Make it stand: If you’re worried about stability, you can purchase a beer can chicken holder or create a more stable base by placing the can in a small baking dish.
• Check for doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.
• Rest before carving: This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat instead of running out when you cut it.

Perfect Pairings for Your BBQ Chicken

This bbq chicken and beer main dish pairs beautifully with classic barbecue sides like:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Garlic butter potatoes
• Fresh green salad
• And of course, more of the same beer you used for cooking!

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken and Beer

Can I make this in the oven instead of on a grill?

Yes! Place the chicken on the beer can in a roasting pan and cook in a preheated 375°F oven for about the same amount of time. You’ll miss some of the smoky flavor, but it will still be delicious.

What if I don’t want to use beer?

You can substitute the beer with apple juice, chicken broth, or even soda. The concept is the same – the liquid creates steam that flavors and moistens the chicken from within.

Can I use chicken pieces instead of a whole chicken?

This specific method works best with a whole chicken, but you can apply the same seasoning to chicken pieces and grill them traditionally for equally flavorful results.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken and Beer Recipe

This showstopper recipe not only delivers incredible flavor but also creates a stunning presentation that will impress your guests. The combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in the rub complements the subtle beer infusion perfectly. Plus, the upright cooking position ensures even browning and helps render the fat for healthier eating. Next time you’re planning a backyard barbecue, make this bbq chicken and beer recipe your star attraction!