Ingredients for Beer Brined Butterflied Chicken
- 1 whole Chicken
- 180g Kosher Salt (divided)
- 152g Dark Brown Sugar (divided)
- 16g Fresh Ground Black Pepper (divided)
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 12 ounces (355ml) Lager Beer
- 1 tablespoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin
- 1 teaspoon Celery Salt
- ½ teaspoon Chili Powder
- ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
- a pinch of Cayenne Pepper
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 4 cups (950ml) very hot water
- 4 cups Ice Cubes
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How to Make Beer Brined Butterflied Chicken
- Butterfly the chicken: Using kitchen shears, cut along one side of the backbone to create a butterfly effect.
- Prepare the brine: In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup (177g) kosher salt, ¾ cup (150g) packed dark brown sugar, 1 tablespoon (15g) black pepper, and 2 bay leaves.
- Dissolve and cool: Add 4 cups (950ml) very hot water and stir until salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Add 12 ounces (355ml) beer and stir gently to release carbonation. Stir in 4 cups of ice cubes until the brine is completely chilled.
- Brine the chicken: Once the brine is cool (ice melted), submerge the chicken completely. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
- Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine ½ teaspoon (3g) kosher salt, ½ teaspoon (2g) brown sugar, ¼ teaspoon (1g) black pepper, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 teaspoon celery salt, 1 teaspoon cumin, ½ teaspoon chili powder, ½ teaspoon oregano, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Dry the chicken: Remove chicken from brine and let it air dry for 10 minutes.
- Pat dry and season: Blot the chicken dry with paper towels. Brush or rub both sides with 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil and generously sprinkle with the spice rub.
- Tuck and grill: Tuck the wings behind the back. Grill, covered, over indirect medium heat (approximately 350°F/175°C), for 40-50 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 175-180°F (79-82°C).
- Rest and serve: Remove from grill and let rest for 10 minutes before cutting into quarters and serving.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
Sodium
902 g
Sugar
161g
Fat
64g
Carbs
16g
