When I saw “Beer Can Chicken” I thought it can’t possibly work but I was wrong. The flavour of the chicken is superb and a talking point amongst your family and friends. I have cooked this on BBQ and under a grill and it was superb both ways. When you serve the chicken standing upright you get two reactions, disbelief and amusement. Family and friends seem to imagine it is about to run off and can’t figure out how its vertical. In the old days I used to put a lemon in the chicken to add flavour. Since then, the lemon goes in the gin and tonic served with it.
Beer can chicken is a delightful and inventive method of grilling that has become a favourite among backyard barbecue enthusiasts. This cooking technique involves roasting a whole chicken perched atop an open can of beer, which steams the bird from the inside, ensuring a moist and flavourful result. This method is not only effective but also adds an element of fun and novelty to outdoor cooking.
The Science Behind the Technique
The concept of beer can chicken is simple yet ingenious. As the chicken cooks on the grill, the beer inside the can heats up and evaporates, infusing the meat with moisture and flavour. This steam bath helps to keep the chicken juicy, preventing it from drying out during the cooking process. Additionally, the beer can props the chicken up in a vertical position, allowing the heat to circulate evenly around the entire bird, resulting in perfectly crispy skin.
Flavour and Variations
One of the great things about beer can chicken is its versatility. While the traditional recipe calls for a plain can of beer, the possibilities for flavour variations are endless. You can experiment with different types of beer, from light lagers to rich stouts, each imparting its own unique taste to the chicken. For those who prefer not to use beer, alternatives such as soda, cider, or even wine can be used with excellent results.
The exterior of the chicken can be seasoned with a wide array of spice rubs and marinades. Popular choices include garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, and rosemary. These seasonings create a flavourful crust on the skin, complementing the tender meat inside. Additionally, stuffing the cavity with herbs, citrus fruits, or garlic cloves can further enhance the flavour profile.
Serving Suggestions
Beer can chicken is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, and coleslaw are classic barbecue accompaniments that balance the richness of the chicken. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with roasted potatoes, mac and cheese, or baked beans. The smoky, juicy meat also makes excellent leftovers, perfect for sandwiches, salads, or tacos.
Tips for Success
Achieving the perfect beer can chicken requires some attention to detail. Make sure to preheat your grill to medium-high heat and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the cooking process. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, particularly in the thickest part of the thigh. Lastly, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to let the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent and flavourful.
Basically beer can chicken is a delicious and entertaining way to elevate your grilling game. Its unique cooking method and potential for customization make it a standout choice for any barbecue gathering. Whether you stick to the classic approach or get creative with flavours, beer can chicken is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your outdoor cooking repertoire.
Beer Can Chicken
Having a dinner party and want to be different then this is the dish for you.
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Servings: 6 people
Calories: 810kcal
Ingredients
- 5 lbs whole chicken
- 1 can beer
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the whole chicken with salt and pepper or your favorite dry rub.5 lbs whole chicken, salt, pepper
- Empty about half of the beer from the can and place the can upright in the cavity of the chicken.1 can beer
- Carefully place the chicken upright on the grill over indirect heat, using the can and the chicken’s legs to balance it.
- Grill over indirect heat until the internal temperature in the thigh is 160F (70C) and the juices run clear.
- Carefully remove the chicken with the beer can (the can will be hot) and allow to rest for 15 minutes before lifting it off the can.
Nutrition
Calories: 810kcal | Protein: 71g | Fat: 57g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 337mg | Sodium: 270mg
8 comments
Had to give this a go andnit was amaz8ng. We sat there watching it expecting it to explode but it didn’t. It did however flavour the chicken perfectly.
Stupid idea but it works so well.
I’ve always been intrigued by the idea of beer can chicken, and finally decided to try it out for a family barbecue. The result was phenomenal!
What a way to cook a chicken. Brilliant
Cooking two of my faviurites things in one go = perfect creation. The chicken taste really good.
The beer steam really did keep the meat juicy, and the flavor was subtle yet noticeable. It took some effort to balance the chicken on the can, but once it was on the grill, it was smooth sailing.
The chicken was juicy and had a nice hint of beer flavor, which was a pleasant surprise.
Failed with the first three beers but finally got it to balance.