Beer Can Chicken

Sometimes, the universe hands you a culinary gem that takes your kitchen by storm, and this Beer Can Chicken is just that. Why? It’s a poultry party on a can that gets you crispy, juicy chicken all while capturing imaginations. You’re not just making chicken; you’re turning dinner into a spectacle. Picture this: mouthwatering tender meat with a crispy skin that’ll leave you running back for seconds—and probably thirds. You’ll want to gather your gang around this wonder bird.

My family has turned this recipe into a full-blown tradition. Every summer BBQ, you can count on seeing a golden-brown chicken sitting regal atop a beer can. The kids think it’s pure magic how the beer makes the chicken juicy and tender, and my husband? Well, he claims it’s his “contribution” to let the beer flavor the meat. Honestly, I think he just loves to show off our quirky cooking style to friends. No complaints here—we clear plates every single time.

How to Make It

Alright, listen up! Start by grabbing a whole chicken—nothing too fancy, just something that’ll fit over a 12 oz. beer can. Spice it up with whatever rub you fancy; I’m a paprika-and-garlic kinda gal. Don’t forget to drink half the beer first—research, they call it! Plop the chicken over the can, dance it onto a baking dish or roasting pan, and send it into a 375°F oven or grill. Let the deliciousness happen. About 75–90 minutes later, you’ll see a crusty, joyful bird emerging, practically begging to be the centerpiece.

✔Ingredient Notes

– Chicken: A sassy medium-sized bird is your best friend for this. Too small, and it’ll fly off. Trust me.
– Beer: Use a can of your choice—lager, ale, just not stout. Tried it once, and nope, not again.
– Spice Rub: Go wild with your mix, but paprika gives it that lovely color. Omitting it leaves you with pale beer chicken… not the vibe.

✔Recipe Steps

1. Preheat the grill or oven to 375°F.
2. Rub the chicken generously with seasoning.
3. Drink half of the beer (for science, of course).
4. Place the can in the cavity of the chicken.
5. Set the chicken upright on a baking pan.
6. Roast for 75–90 minutes until crispy and 165°F internal temp.

What to Serve It With

✔Tips & Mistakes

✔Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Wrap them up or toss them in a container for the fridge. They’re surprisingly delicious cold, straight from the fridge, or reheated. Breakfast chicken is an option, and I won’t judge.

✔Variations and Substitutions

Feel like experimenting? Swap a soda can if you’re out of beer, or use different herbs in the spice mix to switch it up. Honey or brown sugar adds a sweet twist if that’s your thing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Beer Can Chicken

A juicy and flavorful roast chicken cooked on a beer can for tender meat and crispy skin.

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Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 1 whole whole chicken
• ▢ 0.5 cup olive oil for rubbing
• ▢ 2 tbsp paprika
• ▢ 1 tbsp garlic powder
• ▢ 1 tsp black pepper
• ▢ 1 tsp salt
• ▢ 1 can lager beer 12 oz can

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F).
• Mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to create a spice rub.
• Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin.
• Open the beer can and pour out (or drink) half of the beer. Place the can on a sturdy surface.
• Place the chicken cavity over the beer can, standing upright.
• Place the chicken on the grill, cover, and cook for 55-60 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Remove the chicken carefully from the beer can and rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

For extra crispy skin, sear the chicken over direct heat for 5 minutes before indirect grilling.