Beer Can Chicken
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 20 mins
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Servings
6
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Calories
371 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Beer Can Chicken
Description
Beer Can Chicken involves seasoning a whole 4-pound chicken with olive oil, kosher salt, and a BBQ rub. A can of beer is opened, partially emptied, and punctured to allow steam to escape. The chicken is carefully placed upright over the beer can, resting on the grill indirectly heated between 325 and 375°F.
As the chicken cooks for about 60-90 minutes, the beer inside the can steams, keeping the meat moist while the grill's indirect heat crisps the skin. The result is tender breast and thigh meat with a flavorful, golden exterior. A probe thermometer ensures the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
After resting for 5-7 minutes, the chicken can be served garnished with herbs if desired. This technique provides a flavorful and moist whole chicken suitable for outdoor grilling enthusiasts.
Using a homemade or store-bought BBQ rub is acceptable, and selecting an organic chicken can enhance flavor. Take care when handling the hot beer can and chicken after cooking to avoid burns.
Ingredients
- 4 lb chicken whole
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup bbq rub homemade or store bought
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 can beer
- herbs optional, fresh, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium heat. Set up the grill for indirect cooking as described above in the post text. You want the grill temperature to be between 325 and 375 degrees F.
- Brush the olive oil all over the chicken. Coat the outside and inside cavity of the chicken with the BBQ spice mix and salt.
- Open the can of beer and pour out 1/4 of the beer. Poke a few holes in the top of the can.
- Slide the chicken down on top of the beer can until the legs touch the ground to create a tripod with the chicken legs and can.
- Insert a probe thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken breast or thigh.
- Place the chicken on the grill on the side that does not contain the coals or flame.
- Cover the grill. Cook the chicken for 60-90 minutes or until the thermometer reads 165 degrees F.
- Carefully remove the chicken and beer can from the grill.
- Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes, then serve, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
- A homemade BBQ rub adds personalized flavor but pre-made rubs can be used to save time.
- Choosing organic chicken may improve overall taste compared to conventional options.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 371 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 371kcal | 19% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 27g | 54% |
| Fat | 17g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 109mg | 36% |
| Sodium | 492mg | 21% |
| Potassium | 287mg | 6% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 203IU | 4% |
| Vitamin C | 2mg | 2% |
| Calcium | 18mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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