Beer Can Chicken
A whole chicken cooked over a beer can, ensuring a tender, juicy inside and a crispy skin, enhanced by simple seasonings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 can beer (half-full, room temperature) Use a flavored beer like a lager or ale for enhanced taste.
- 5 pound whole chicken (neck and giblets removed) Ensure chicken is at room temperature before cooking.
Seasoning Mixture
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil Helps seasonings adhere and creates crispy skin.
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for spice preference.
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove the neck and giblets from the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix the vegetable oil and spices: cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, paprika, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper.
Seasoning the Chicken
- Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken, coating the entire surface, including under the wings and around the legs.
Setting Up the Can
- Open the beer can and pour out half of the beer. Place the can in a stable position.
- Position the chicken upright over the beer can, with the legs supporting it at the bottom.
Cooking
- For grilling: Preheat the grill and place the chicken on the grill grates, standing upright with the beer can.
- For oven: Transfer the chicken with beer can into a roasting pan and place in the oven.
- Roast until the skin is golden and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after removing it from heat.
Notes
Consider serving with roasted vegetables or salad. Leftovers are great for sandwiches or tacos.