Cooking Beer Can Chicken on the Grill: A Deliciously Easy Recipe

Introduction to Beer Can Chicken

Beer can chicken, also known as beer butt chicken, is a popular grilling recipe that involves cooking a whole chicken on the grill using a can of beer as a steamer. The result is a moist, flavorful, and tender chicken that’s sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to cook beer can chicken on the grill, including the necessary ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To cook beer can chicken on the grill, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
• 1 can of beer (any type, but lighter beers work best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 lemon, quartered (optional)
• Grill with a lid (gas or charcoal)
• Grill grates or a grill mat
• Tongs or a spatula
• Meat thermometer

Choosing the Right Beer

When it comes to choosing the right beer for beer can chicken, the options are endless. However, lighter beers tend to work best, as they won’t overpower the flavor of the chicken. Some popular beer options for beer can chicken include:

• Lager
• Pilsner
• Pale ale
• Wheat beer

Avoid using dark or hoppy beers, as they can give the chicken a bitter flavor.

Preparing the Chicken

Before cooking the chicken, make sure to rinse it under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets and neck from the cavity, and trim any excess fat around the neck and body.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for cooking beer can chicken on the grill.

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Make sure to clean the grill grates or grill mat with a wire brush to prevent any food residue from sticking to the chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.

Step 3: Open the Beer Can

Open the can of beer and pour out about 1/4 of the contents. This will help the beer steam more efficiently and prevent it from overflowing during cooking.

Step 4: Place the Beer Can in the Chicken

Place the beer can in the cavity of the chicken, making sure it’s standing upright. You can use a beer can chicken holder or a foil ring to help stabilize the can.

Step 5: Place the Chicken on the Grill

Place the chicken on the grill, breast side up. Close the lid and cook for around 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.

Step 6: Check the Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast or thigh, avoiding any bones or fat.

Step 7: Let it Rest

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for around 10-15 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute and the chicken to retain its moisture.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you take your beer can chicken to the next level:

• Use a wood chip or chunk to add smoky flavor to the chicken. Popular options include hickory, apple, and cherry.
• Add some aromatics to the beer can, such as onion slices, garlic cloves, or lemon quarters.
• Use a different type of beer, such as a stout or porter, for a richer flavor.
• Add some spice to the chicken, such as cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Use a beer can chicken holder or a foil ring to help stabilize the can and prevent it from tipping over.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking beer can chicken on the grill:

• Not preheating the grill to the right temperature. This can result in uneven cooking and a raw or undercooked chicken.
• Not using a meat thermometer. This can result in overcooking or undercooking the chicken.
• Not letting the chicken rest. This can result in a dry and tough chicken.
• Not using a beer can chicken holder or foil ring. This can result in the can tipping over and the chicken falling off the grill.

Conclusion

Cooking beer can chicken on the grill is a deliciously easy recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With the right ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions, you can create a moist, flavorful, and tender chicken that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to use a meat thermometer, let the chicken rest, and avoid common mistakes to ensure a perfect beer can chicken every time.

Beer Can Chicken Nutrition Facts

Here are the nutrition facts for a typical beer can chicken recipe:

Note: Nutrition facts may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

Beer Can Chicken Recipe Variations

Here are some beer can chicken recipe variations you can try:

• Lemon Rosemary Beer Can Chicken: Add some lemon quarters and rosemary sprigs to the beer can for a bright and herbaceous flavor.
• Spicy Beer Can Chicken: Add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the chicken for a spicy kick.
• Smoky Beer Can Chicken: Use a wood chip or chunk to add smoky flavor to the chicken.
• Garlic Parmesan Beer Can Chicken: Add some garlic powder and parmesan cheese to the chicken for a savory and aromatic flavor.

These are just a few ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to create your own unique beer can chicken recipe.

What is Beer Can Chicken and how does it work?

Beer Can Chicken is a popular grilling recipe where a whole chicken is cooked upright on the grill with a can of beer inserted into the cavity. The beer can helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor to the meat as it cooks. The steam from the beer also helps to crisp up the skin, resulting in a deliciously tender and juicy chicken.

The science behind Beer Can Chicken is that the beer can acts as a heat conductor, distributing the heat evenly throughout the chicken. As the beer heats up, it turns to steam, which rises and cooks the chicken from the inside out. This method of cooking helps to prevent the chicken from drying out and ensures that it stays moist and flavorful.

What type of beer is best to use for Beer Can Chicken?

The type of beer to use for Beer Can Chicken is a matter of personal preference. However, it’s best to use a lighter-colored beer with a lower hop content, such as a lager or pilsner. These types of beers will add a subtle flavor to the chicken without overpowering it. Avoid using dark or hoppy beers, as they can give the chicken a bitter taste.

Some popular beer options for Beer Can Chicken include Budweiser, Coors, and Corona. You can also experiment with different flavors, such as a citrus-flavored beer or a beer with a hint of spice. Just be sure to choose a beer that you enjoy the taste of, as it will be infused into the chicken as it cooks.

How do I prepare the chicken for grilling?

To prepare the chicken for grilling, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the chicken with your desired spices and rubs, making sure to get some under the skin as well. You can also stuff the cavity with onions, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.

Next, open the can of beer and pour out about 1/4 of the contents. Place the can on a flat surface and sit the chicken on top of it, making sure the can is inserted into the cavity. Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to help guide the chicken onto the can. Once the chicken is securely seated on the can, it’s ready to go on the grill.

How long does it take to cook Beer Can Chicken on the grill?

The cooking time for Beer Can Chicken will depend on the size of the chicken and the heat of your grill. As a general rule, a 3-4 pound chicken will take about 45-60 minutes to cook. You can check the internal temperature of the chicken by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. The temperature should read at least 165°F.

It’s also important to check the chicken’s skin for crispiness and golden brown color. If the skin is not crispy enough, you can close the grill lid and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. Just be sure to keep an eye on the chicken to prevent it from burning.

Can I use a gas grill or charcoal grill for Beer Can Chicken?

Both gas and charcoal grills can be used to cook Beer Can Chicken. However, charcoal grills will give the chicken a smokier flavor, while gas grills will provide a more even heat. If you’re using a gas grill, make sure to preheat it to medium-high heat and adjust the burners as needed to maintain a consistent temperature.

If you’re using a charcoal grill, make sure to adjust the vents to control the temperature. You can also add wood chips or chunks to the coals for added smoky flavor. Just be sure to keep an eye on the temperature and adjust the vents as needed to prevent the chicken from burning.

How do I ensure the chicken stays moist and juicy?

To ensure the chicken stays moist and juicy, make sure to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, and avoid cooking the chicken beyond 165°F. You can also baste the chicken with melted butter or olive oil to keep it moist and add flavor.

Another tip is to not open the grill lid too often, as this can let heat escape and dry out the chicken. Instead, let the chicken cook undisturbed for at least 30 minutes before checking on it. This will help the chicken retain its moisture and result in a juicy and tender final product.

Can I serve Beer Can Chicken with any sides or sauces?

Beer Can Chicken can be served with a variety of sides and sauces. Some popular options include grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, and coleslaw. You can also serve the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce or a homemade sauce made from ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, and vinegar.

Other options include serving the chicken with roasted potatoes, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. You can also get creative and serve the chicken with unique sides like grilled pineapple or spicy roasted peppers. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite combinations.