Apple Juice Butt Chicken Recipe

Ingredients for Apple Juice Butt Chicken

• Broiler Fryer Chicken
• Apple Juice
• Orange Zest
• Poultry Seasoning
• Bay Leaf
• Thyme Leaves
• Rosemary
• Orange
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

How to Make Apple Juice Butt Chicken

1. Prepare the apple juice can: Drink a 12-ounce can of your favorite beer or soda, ensuring it's completely empty and clean.
2. Infuse the can: Pour 8 ounces of apple juice into the cleaned can.
3. Spice it up: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional), and 1 bay leaf. Divide the spice mixture in half. Add half the spice mix and the bay leaf to the can of apple juice.
4. Reserve basting spices: Set aside the remaining spice mixture for basting.
5. Prep the grilling pan: In a large 9x13 inch baking pan, pour 1 cup of apple juice and add slices from 1 orange.
6. Assemble the chicken: Carefully place the chicken on top of the can, ensuring it's stable. Place the can with the chicken in the prepared baking pan.
7. Grill the chicken: Preheat your gas grill to 350°F (175°C). Once heated, turn off the middle burner to prevent burning. Alternatively, if using a charcoal grill, maintain medium-high heat and manage the coals as needed.
8. Baste and monitor: Every 30 minutes, baste the chicken generously with 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil and the reserved spice mixture.
9. Check for doneness: The chicken is cooked through when a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C). This typically takes around 2 hours but may vary depending on your grill and the size of the chicken.
10. Rest and serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving and serving. Enjoy!