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–+ servings

The Ultimate BBQ Beer Can Chicken Recipe

This mouthwatering bbq beer can chicken combines the magic of indirect grilling with the flavor-enhancing properties of beer to create a perfectly seasoned whole chicken that's deliciously crisp on the outside and incredibly moist on the inside.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 546
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken 4-5 pounds, giblets removed
  • 1 can 12 oz of your favorite beer (lager works well)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to your heat preference

Method
 

  1. Prepare your grill for indirect heat cooking, aiming for a temperature of approximately 375°F (190°C). If using a charcoal grill, place coals on one side; if using gas, light only half the burners.
  2. Place an aluminum drip pan in the center of the grill where you'll position the chicken (on the side without direct heat).
  3. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to create your spice rub.
  4. Remove the chicken from packaging, drain any excess liquid, and pat thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin!
  5. Brush the entire chicken with olive oil, then generously coat with the spice rub, including inside the cavity. Make sure to get under the wings and legs for maximum flavor.
  6. Open your beer can and pour out (or drink!) about 1/4 of the contents. This creates space for steam to form inside the can.
  7. Place the beer can on a flat surface, then carefully lower the chicken cavity onto the can so the chicken is sitting upright with the can inside it. The legs should form a tripod with the can for stability.
  8. Carefully transfer the chicken with the beer can to the grill's indirect heat zone, positioning it over the drip pan. The upright chicken should be stable; if using a beer can chicken holder, secure it properly now.
  9. Close the grill lid and cook for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (without touching bone) reads 165°F (74°C).
  10. Without opening the grill too often (which releases heat), you may check on the chicken periodically. If the skin is browning too quickly, you can tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
  11. Once fully cooked, carefully remove the chicken with the can still inserted (use heatproof gloves and tongs for support) and place on a cutting board.
  12. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carefully removing the beer can. Carve and serve your delicious bbq beer can chicken!

Nutrition

Calories: 546kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 48gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 145mgSodium: 479mgFiber: 3gSugar: 18g
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