Description
Juicy and flavorful Beer Can Chicken is a classic grilled main course where a whole chicken is seasoned with BBQ rub and cooked upright on a can of beer, infusing the meat with moisture and subtle flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts and family gatherings, this easy recipe yields tender, crispy-skinned chicken every time.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup BBQ rub (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For Cooking
- 1 can beer (standard 12 oz, any variety)
For Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme or rosemary)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F–400°F). Clean and oil the grates. If using charcoal, arrange the coals on one side for indirect heat. - Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then rub the entire chicken with olive oil. Generously sprinkle the BBQ rub and kosher salt all over the chicken, making sure to coat both the outside and inside of the cavity for maximum flavor. - Prepare the Beer Can
Open the beer can and pour out (or drink) about 1/4 of the beer, leaving the rest in the can. Place the can on a stable surface. Gently lower the chicken cavity over the beer can so the can sits in the larger opening of the chicken, letting the legs help support it upright. - Grill the Chicken
Carefully transfer the chicken (standing upright on the can) to the cooler side of the grill, using indirect heat. Close the lid and grill for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. Rotate the chicken as needed to ensure even cooking. - Rest and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken and beer can from the grill (use tongs and oven mitts; the can will be very hot). Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes, then gently lift it off the can. Carve and garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer, you can substitute another canned beverage (such as soda or cider).
- For extra flavor, add additional spices to the BBQ rub or stuff the chicken cavity with fresh herbs before placing on the beer can.
- Leftover chicken can be used in sandwiches, salads, or wraps.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 chicken
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 44g
- Cholesterol: 150mg