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Crispy Beer Can Chicken Recipe with Bold BBQ Rub Easy & Perfect

crispy beer can chicken - featured image

A simple and flavorful method to roast a whole chicken standing on a beer can, resulting in crispy skin and juicy meat with a bold BBQ rub.

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds / 1.8 to 2.3 kg), fresh or thawed, skin on
  • Beer (12 oz / 355 ml can), lager or pale ale recommended
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Brown sugar (2 tablespoons)
  • Paprika (1 tablespoon), smoked paprika preferred
  • Chili powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional)
  • Salt (1 tablespoon), preferably kosher salt
  • Black pepper (1 teaspoon), freshly ground
  • Optional fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for stuffing the cavity

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Remove giblets from the chicken and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes.
  3. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper to make the BBQ rub.
  4. Brush the chicken all over with olive oil, including under the skin if possible.
  5. Rub the spice mix generously over the entire chicken, including the cavity and under the wings.
  6. Open the beer and pour out about half. Place the can on a stable surface and carefully lower the chicken onto the can so it stands upright. Stuff fresh herbs inside the cavity if using.
  7. Place the chicken standing up in your roasting pan to catch drippings.
  8. Roast in the oven for 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the chicken from the oven and carefully lift it off the beer can. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
  10. Carve and serve the chicken, enjoying the crispy skin and juicy meat.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning for crispier skin. Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure doneness. Pour out half the beer before using the can to avoid mess. Rest the chicken after cooking to keep it juicy. If skin isn’t crispy enough, broil for 3-5 minutes watching closely to prevent burning. Tie legs with twine for even cooking if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer can chicken, crispy chicken, BBQ rub, roasted chicken, easy chicken recipe, bold flavor, oven roasted chicken