Beer Can Chicken: The Ultimate Backyard BBQ

Beer can chicken, also known as “bum roast” or “beer butt chicken,” is a simple and flavorful method of grilling a whole chicken. The beer can acts as a stand, keeping the chicken upright and allowing the juices to baste the meat from the inside out. This results in incredibly moist and tender chicken with a crispy skin.

Choosing the Right Beer

While any beer will work, some are better suited for beer can chicken than others.

Lagers: Light lagers like Budweiser or Miller Lite are popular choices as they impart a subtle flavor to the chicken.

Pilsners: German pilsners offer a slightly more complex flavor profile with a touch of bitterness.

Wheat Beers: Hefeweizens or other wheat beers add a fruity and slightly sweet note to the chicken.

Avoid: Stouts and IPAs can be too overpowering and may impart an undesirable bitterness to the chicken.

Preparing the Chicken

1. Rinse and Pat Dry: Rinse the chicken inside and out with cold water. Pat it completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can hinder browning.
2. Season the Cavity: Rub the inside of the chicken cavity with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and dried thyme are all excellent choices.
3. Season the Skin: Generously season the outside of the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings. You can also use a dry rub or marinade.

Preparing the Beer Can

1. Crack the Can: Carefully crack open the top of the beer can about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
2. Place the Chicken on the Can: Carefully place the chicken on top of the beer can, ensuring it is centered.

Grilling the Chicken

1. Prepare the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
2. Place the Chicken on the Grill: Carefully place the chicken and beer can directly on the grill grates.
3. Grill Indirectly: If your grill has a two-zone setup, move the chicken to the indirect heat side. This will help prevent flare-ups and cook the chicken more evenly.
4. Grill for 1.5-2 Hours: Grill the chicken for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F.
5. Rest: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender meat.

Tips for the Perfect Beer Can Chicken

Don’t Overfill the Can: Fill the beer can only about halfway.

Use a Rotisserie: If you have a rotisserie attachment for your grill, it can help cook the chicken more evenly.

Monitor the Temperature: Keep a close eye on the grill temperature and adjust as needed.

Add Smoke: For extra flavor, add a few wood chips to the coals or use a smoker box.

Baste the Chicken: Occasionally baste the chicken with melted butter or pan drippings for extra moisture and flavor.

Serve Immediately: Enjoy the beer can chicken hot off the grill.

Variations

Spatchcock Chicken: Spatchcocking (butterflying) the chicken by removing the backbone will significantly reduce cooking time.

Herb Butter: Stuff the cavity with herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage for extra flavor.

Citrus Infusion: Add citrus fruits like lemons or oranges to the cavity or grill them alongside the chicken.

Spicy Rub: Use a spicy rub like Cajun seasoning or chili powder for a kick of heat.

Troubleshooting

Dry Chicken: If your chicken is too dry, it may be due to overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the proper internal temperature.

Uneven Cooking: Uneven cooking can be caused by inconsistent heat distribution. Rotate the chicken halfway through cooking.

Flare-ups: If you experience flare-ups, move the chicken to a cooler part of the grill or reduce the heat.

Side Dish Pairings

Beer can chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish.

Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad is a refreshing and satisfying accompaniment.

Cole Slaw: A light and crunchy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the rich chicken.

Grilled Vegetables: Grilled vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and onions add a touch of freshness.

Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans are a hearty and flavorful option.

Conclusion

Beer can chicken is a simple and delicious grilling method that yields incredibly flavorful results. By following these tips and experimenting with different seasonings and variations, you can create a truly memorable meal for family and friends. So fire up the grill and enjoy the deliciousness of this classic summer dish!