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Crispy Beer Can Chicken Recipe Perfect for Juicy Grilled Dinners

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This crispy beer can chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with perfectly crispy skin using a simple beer can steaming method on the grill. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds)
  • 1 (12 oz) can light lager or pilsner beer
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill for indirect cooking at medium heat, about 375°F (190°C). If using charcoal, bank the coals to one side; for gas, turn off one burner to create an indirect zone. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
  2. Remove any giblets or excess fat from the chicken cavity. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, mix kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using) to make the spice rub.
  4. Rub 2 tablespoons olive oil all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible.
  5. Generously sprinkle the spice rub all over the chicken, including inside the cavity.
  6. Open the beer can and pour out or drink about half of it. Carefully make a few holes in the top of the can for steam release.
  7. Place the chicken cavity over the beer can so it sits upright. Secure with a beer can chicken holder if available.
  8. Position the chicken upright over the indirect heat zone on the grill. Close the lid and cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, maintaining grill temperature around 375°F (190°C).
  9. After about an hour, check the internal temperature at the thickest part of the thigh (without touching bone). The chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
  10. Carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest upright for 10-15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  11. Remove the beer can carefully and carve the chicken. Serve immediately.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry before applying oil and rub to ensure crispy skin. Maintain consistent grill temperature around 375°F (190°C) using indirect heat. Open holes in the beer can to prevent pressure buildup. Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest the chicken 10-15 minutes after grilling for juicy meat. If skin isn’t crispy enough, briefly move chicken over direct heat while watching carefully.

Nutrition

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

Find it online: https://tessierecipes.com/crispy-beer-can-chicken-recipe-perfect-for-juicy-grilled-dinners/