BBQ Beer Can Chicken

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Have you ever tried BBQ beer can chicken? It's a delicious and flavorful way to cook chicken on the grill.

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BBQ Beer Can Chicken
Prep
25 min
Cook
1 hr 30 min
Total
1 hr 55 min
Servings
8

Method

  1. Soak the wood chips in water for at least 1 hour.

  2. Preheat an outdoor grill to indirect medium heat, around 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

  3. In a small bowl, combine dark brown sugar, kosher salt, paprika, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

  4. Place two half-full cans of beer on a baking sheet. Spoon 1 teaspoon of the seasoning mix into each can. Be cautious as this will cause the beer to foam up and potentially overflow.

  5. Rinse the chicken under cold running water. Remove and discard the giblets and neck. Drain and pat the chicken dry.

  6. Rub each chicken with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Then, rub the remaining seasoning mix all over the chicken, both inside and out.

  7. Place each chicken, with the legs on the bottom, over a can of beer to keep them upright.

  8. Drain the soaked wood chips and place them with the coals or in an aluminum pan on or under the grill grate, following the instructions in the grill's manual.

  9. Put the two chickens, standing on their cans, directly on the grill. Close the lid and barbecue the chicken until the juices run clear and it is no longer pink at the bone, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh, near the bone, which should read 180 degrees F (82 degrees C).

About this recipe

Have you ever tried BBQ beer can chicken? It's a delicious and flavorful way to cook chicken on the grill. Imagine tender and juicy meat infused with the smoky aroma of barbecue sauce, complemented by the subtle notes of your favorite beer. It's a match made in grilling heaven!

Why BBQ Beer Can Chicken?

So, what makes BBQ beer can chicken so special? Well, the secret lies in the combination of two key elements – the beer and the method of cooking. When you place a can of beer inside the chicken and cook it on the grill, the beer steams and infuses the meat with moisture and flavor. This results in incredibly tender and tasty chicken.

Not only does the beer add flavor, but it also helps to keep the chicken moist during the cooking process. The steam from the beer creates a moist environment inside the grill, preventing the chicken from drying out. The result? A perfectly cooked chicken with crispy skin and succulent meat.

How to Prepare BBQ Beer Can Chicken

Preparing BBQ beer can chicken is easier than you might think. Start by selecting a whole chicken and removing any giblets or excess fat. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels.

Next, choose your favorite beer. The type of beer you use will influence the flavor of the chicken. For a light and refreshing taste, go for a lager or a pale ale. If you prefer a richer and more robust flavor, opt for a stout or a porter.

Open the can of beer and take a few sips to make room for the chicken. Place the can on a sturdy surface and lower the chicken onto it. The chicken should be positioned in a way that it stands upright, with the can inserted into its cavity.

Now it's time to season the chicken. Rub your favorite dry rub or marinade all over the chicken, making sure to coat it evenly. You can use a store-bought seasoning or create your own blend of herbs and spices. The choice is yours!

Fire up your grill and preheat it to medium heat. Once the grill is hot, carefully place the chicken, with the beer can still inside, onto the grill grates. Close the lid and let the chicken cook for about an hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Tips for a Perfect BBQ Beer Can Chicken

Here are a few tips to ensure your BBQ beer can chicken turns out perfectly:

Use a beer can chicken holder:

A beer can chicken holder is a handy accessory that holds the chicken and beer can securely in place on the grill. It helps to prevent any wobbling or tipping over during the cooking process.

Experiment with different flavors:

Don't be afraid to get creative with your seasonings and beer choices. Try different spices, herbs, and beer styles to discover new flavor combinations. The possibilities are endless!

Let the chicken rest:

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender chicken.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any type of beer for BBQ beer can chicken?

Yes, you can use any type of beer that you enjoy. Different beers will impart different flavors to the chicken, so feel free to experiment!

Do I need to remove the chicken's skin?

It's up to you. Leaving the skin on will help to keep the chicken moist, but if you prefer crispy skin, you can remove it before cooking.

Can I cook BBQ beer can chicken in the oven?

Absolutely! If you don't have access to a grill, you can cook beer can chicken in the oven. Just make sure to place a drip pan underneath to catch any drippings.

How long does it take to cook BBQ beer can chicken?

It typically takes about an hour to cook BBQ beer can chicken, but the cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken and the temperature of your grill.

Can I use a non-alcoholic beer?

Yes, you can use a non-alcoholic beer if you prefer. The beer will still add moisture and flavor to the chicken, even without the alcohol content.

Can I use a different type of poultry?

Yes, you can use the BBQ beer can method with other types of poultry, such as turkey or Cornish hens. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use a different type of liquid instead of beer?

Absolutely! While beer is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other liquids, such as soda, broth, or even wine, to infuse different flavors into the chicken.

Can I use this method for grilling other meats?

While beer can chicken is the most popular choice, you can certainly use this method for grilling other meats, such as pork or lamb. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly.

In conclusion, BBQ beer can chicken is a delicious and flavorful way to cook chicken on the grill. With the right combination of beer, seasonings, and cooking technique, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. So, fire up the grill and give BBQ beer can chicken a try – you won't be disappointed!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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