Beer Brined Chicken Recipe

Ingredients for Beer Brined Chicken

• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 12 ounces beer
• Whole Chicken
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• Seasoning Salt
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• Pepper
• Cayenne Pepper
• Vegetable Oil

How to Make Beer Brined Chicken

1. Prepare the Brine: In a 2-quart bowl or large resealable food-storage bag (at least 2-gallon size), combine 4 cups of water, 1/2 cup kosher salt, and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Stir until completely dissolved.
2. Add Beer & Chicken: Stir in 12 ounces of your favorite beer. Add the whole chicken to the brine bag.
3. Brine the Chicken: Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or up to 24 hours.
4. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 13x9 inch baking pan with foil.
5. Rinse & Dry: Remove chicken from brine and rinse thoroughly under cool running water. Pat completely dry with paper towels. For extra crispy skin, refrigerate uncovered for 1 hour (optional).
6. Make the Rub: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
7. Season the Chicken: Brush the chicken with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle the rub evenly over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin.
8. Bake the Chicken: Place the chicken in the prepared pan, breast side up. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
9. Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
10. Grill or Beer Can Method: For grilling, follow steps 1-6. Grill chicken over medium heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through. For the beer-can method (oven or grill), follow steps 1-6 then place chicken on a beer can (partially full) for even cooking. Adjust cooking time as needed.