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Crispy Beer Can Chicken

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This crispy beer can chicken recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meat with shatteringly crisp skin, thanks to a simple spice rub and the steam from a can of beer. It’s a showstopper for backyard gatherings and easy enough for any home cook.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
  • 1 can beer (12 oz)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • Fresh herbs (rosemary, sage, or parsley; optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the skin dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne. Mix well.
  3. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible. Sprinkle and pat the spice rub generously over the chicken.
  4. Open the beer and pour out (or drink) half. Use a can opener to make a few extra holes in the top. Drop a couple lemon slices and fresh herbs into the can.
  5. Carefully lower the chicken onto the beer can so the can fits into the cavity and the chicken stands upright. Tuck the legs forward for stability.
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high (about 375°F). Set up for indirect heat by turning off burners under the chicken (gas) or moving coals to the sides (charcoal). Place a drip pan or layer of foil under where the chicken will sit.
  7. Place the chicken (upright) on the grill over the drip pan. Close the lid and grill for 60-75 minutes, rotating halfway if needed for even browning.
  8. Check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh (not touching bone)—internal temp should be 165°F.
  9. Carefully remove the chicken from the grill (use tongs and oven mitts). Let it stand upright for 10 minutes before carving.
  10. Slide the chicken off the can (use caution—the can is steamy!). Carve into legs, thighs, wings, and breast meat. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry for crispier skin. Use indirect heat to avoid burning. Tent with foil if browning too fast. Add 10-15 minutes to cook time in cooler weather. Swap beer for gluten-free beer or apple cider if needed. For oven method, roast at 375°F for 75-90 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer can chicken, grilled chicken, crispy chicken, summer grilling, backyard barbecue, easy chicken recipe, juicy chicken, family dinner

Find it online: https://blingbite.com/crispy-beer-can-chicken-recipe-for-the-juiciest-grilled-dinner/