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Crispy Beer Can Chicken

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A simple and delicious recipe for crispy beer can chicken with smoky BBQ flavor, perfect for outdoor gatherings and family dinners.

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs / 1.8-2.3 kg) – fresh or thawed, preferably organic or free-range
  • Beer (one 12 oz / 355 ml can) – lager or pale ale recommended
  • Olive oil (2 tbsp / 30 ml)
  • Garlic powder (1 tsp)
  • Onion powder (1 tsp)
  • Smoked paprika (2 tsp)
  • Cayenne pepper (1/4 tsp)
  • Salt (1 tbsp) – preferably kosher salt
  • Black pepper (1 tsp) – freshly ground
  • Brown sugar (1 tbsp)
  • Fresh herbs (optional: rosemary or thyme sprigs)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill for indirect heat cooking at medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). If using charcoal, bank the coals to one side; for gas, turn off burners directly under the chicken.
  2. Remove giblets and excess fat from the cavity. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar. Stir well to mix.
  4. Rub 2 tablespoons of olive oil all over the chicken, including under the skin if possible, then generously coat the chicken with the seasoning mix, including the cavity and under the wings.
  5. Open the beer can and pour out or drink about half the beer. Add a few sprigs of fresh herbs inside the can if desired.
  6. Place the beer can in a chicken holder or carefully balance the chicken upright on the can so it stands tall.
  7. Put the chicken upright on the grill over indirect heat, close the lid, and cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, maintaining a steady temperature around 350°F (175°C).
  8. Check the thickest part of the thigh with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
  9. Carefully remove the chicken using tongs and gloves. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Notes

Dry the chicken skin thoroughly before seasoning for best crispiness. Use indirect heat to avoid burning. Let the chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices. Wood chips like hickory or applewood can be added for extra smoky flavor. If no grill is available, roast upright in a 375°F oven for about 1 hour 20 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer can chicken, crispy chicken, BBQ chicken, grilled chicken, smoky chicken, outdoor cooking, summer barbecue

Find it online: https://lunafeast.com/crispy-beer-can-chicken-recipe-5-easy-steps-for-smoky-bbq-perfection/