Whether you roast Beer Can Chicken in the Oven or sear it on the grill, this Beer Can Chicken Recipe is moist and flavorful on the inside with a seasoned rub that creates a crispy caramelized exterior. Beer Chicken retains the moisture of beer for a delicious dinner that's perfect for game day and beyond!
Prepare chicken by removing any giblets, etc, and discard. Rinse the chicken and pat dry.
Rub the chicken with your oil. Use salt, pepper and dry rub all over the inside and outside of the bird. Set aside.
Pour 1/3 to 1/2 of your can of beer into the base of the roasting pan.
Place the beer can directly inside the cavity of the chicken.
Place your chicken into the oven and roast for one hour and fifteen minutes. Check your temp with a meat thermometer - you'll want to see 180 degrees fahrenheit in the thickest part of the thigh, 165 in the breast (internal).
Let chicken rest for 10 minutes. You can even make a loose tent over the chicken to create a moisture trap. Carve and serve.
Video
Notes
Substitutions and Variations
Vegetable Oil - Any type of oil will do. Olive oil and canola oil, even melted butter, make great substitutes.
Poultry Seasoning- Have fun with it! Use your favorite seasoning blend.
Beer - Whatever you have on hand, or substitute with Chicken Broth, Vegetable Broth, Lemon Lime Soda or Ginger Ale
Tips
Dry the Chicken - Pat the chicken dry before adding oil and seasoning for a beautiful brown, crispy skin.
Spice Chicken Generously - Use your hands to cover the chicken in spices. The more, the merrier!
Use a Meat Thermometer - Internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 75 degrees Celsius.
Wait to Carve - After the chicken is done, allow it to rest before slicing. It seals in the moisture ensuring the juiciest chicken.
How to Support the Chicken
Use a Large Beer Can - This helps keep the chicken stable.
Wire Rack - No special tools necessary here, but you can purchase a wire rack that holds the chicken upright with the beer in the cavity.
To Store
This chicken makes the best leftovers! Use it in salads, tacos, wraps and more!
Refrigerate - Store in an airtight container up to 5 days.
Freeze - Store in an airtight container or freezer bag up to 3 months.