Beer Can Chicken Recipe

Unleash your inner pitmaster with this juicy, flavorful Beer Can Chicken recipe! This 'drunken chicken' method infuses the bird with smoky beer flavor for incredibly tender and moist results. Perfect for backyard barbecues or a special weekend dinner, this easy recipe is sure to impress. Get ready for fall-off-the-bone deliciousness!

Prep Time 60 mins
Cook Time 120 mins
Calories 771.5 kcal
Protein 115g
Rating 5.0 (7 Reviews)
Beer Can Chicken 104

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Beer Can Chicken

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How to Make Beer Can Chicken

  1. Preheat grill to 350°F (175°C) for indirect grilling. If using charcoal, prepare two mounds of coals with a drip pan in between.
  2. Soak wood chips (1 cup) in water (1 cup) for at least 1 hour. Drain before use.
  3. Open two 12-ounce cans of beer. Pour half of each can (~6 ounces total) over the soaked wood chips.
  4. Using a church-key opener, remove the tabs from both beer cans and punch two additional small holes in the top of each can.
  5. Place 1 tablespoon of your favorite barbecue rub inside each beer can.
  6. Generously season the inside and outside of two whole chickens (approximately 3-4 pounds each) with 4 tablespoons of barbecue rub in total, distributing it evenly.
  7. Carefully place one beer can in the cavity of each chicken, ensuring it is standing upright. Pull the chicken legs forward to create a stable tripod.
  8. If using charcoal, add half the soaked wood chips to each mound of coals. If using gas, place the chips in the smoker box.
  9. Place the chickens upright on the grill grate over the drip pan, away from direct heat.
  10. Cook for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C).
  11. Carefully remove the chickens from the grill and let rest for 10 minutes before removing the beer cans.
  12. Carve and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

14 g

Sugar

2g

Fat

75g

Carbs

1g