Print

Crispy Beer Can Chicken Recipe

crispy beer can chicken - featured image
Print Recipe

A straightforward and satisfying grilled whole chicken recipe that delivers juicy meat and crispy skin using a beer can to steam from within. Perfect for backyard gatherings and easy to master.

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds / 1.8-2.3 kg)
  • Beer (one standard 12 oz / 355 ml can, preferably lager or pale ale)
  • Olive oil or melted butter (2-3 tablespoons)
  • Salt (1-2 teaspoons, kosher salt preferred)
  • Black pepper (1 teaspoon, freshly ground)
  • Paprika (1 teaspoon)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Dried thyme or oregano (optional, ½ teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium heat around 375°F (190°C) using indirect heat. This takes about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Remove giblets from the chicken and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. Rub olive oil or melted butter all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
  4. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs if using.
  5. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
  6. Open the beer can and pour out or drink about a quarter of it to avoid overflow. Optionally add crushed garlic cloves or herbs into the can.
  7. Place the beer can on a stable surface and carefully lower the chicken onto the can so it stands upright.
  8. Place the chicken on the grill over indirect heat and close the lid.
  9. Grill for 50-60 minutes without opening the lid frequently.
  10. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C).
  11. Carefully remove the chicken from the grill using gloves and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.
  12. If the skin is not crispy enough, place the chicken directly over heat for a few minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Notes

Dry the chicken skin thoroughly before seasoning for best crispiness. Use indirect heat to avoid burning the skin. Avoid opening the grill frequently to maintain temperature. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe doneness. If skin is not crispy enough, finish over direct heat briefly. Avoid beer cans with plastic liners or tops. Rest chicken 10 minutes before carving to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer can chicken, grilled chicken, crispy chicken, backyard recipe, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken, beer steamed chicken

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/crispy-beer-can-chicken-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-juicy-grill-perfection/