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Flavorful Beer Can Chicken Recipe Easy Juicy Herb Rub Method

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This beer can chicken recipe delivers juicy, tender meat with crispy skin using a flavorful herb rub and an easy hands-off grilling method. Perfect for outdoor gatherings and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds / 1.8–2.3 kg), skin on
  • 1 (12 oz / 355 ml) can light lager or pilsner beer
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher or sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 small lemon, halved (optional)

Instructions

  1. Remove any giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to make a smooth herb rub paste.
  3. Rub the herb mixture all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Place lemon halves inside the cavity if using.
  4. Open the beer can and pour out or drink about half the beer, leaving the can half full. Optionally add garlic cloves or herbs into the can.
  5. Carefully lower the chicken onto the beer can so it stands upright. Use a beer can chicken stand if available for stability.
  6. Place the chicken on a medium heat grill using indirect heat (~350°F / 175°C). Cover with the lid and cook for 1 to 1.5 hours.
  7. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh (avoid bone). It should read 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Notes

Dry the chicken skin thoroughly before applying the rub for crispier skin. Use indirect heat to avoid burning. Let the chicken rest before carving to lock in juices. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to control flare-ups. For gluten-free, substitute beer with gluten-free beer or sparkling water with apple cider vinegar.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer can chicken, grilled chicken, herb rub, juicy chicken, backyard BBQ, easy chicken recipe, crispy skin chicken

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/flavorful-beer-can-chicken-recipe-easy-juicy-herb-rub-method/