Grilling beer can chicken is one of the best ways to serve juicy, tender, and flavorful chicken with crispy skin and smoky goodness. This crowd-pleasing method infuses the chicken with steam from the beer, keeping the meat moist while giving it a delicious depth of flavor.
Perfect for backyard cookouts, weekend grilling, or any summer gathering, beer can chicken on the grill is simple to prepare and delivers stunning results every time.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
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Unbeatable Juiciness – The steaming beer inside keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
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Crispy Golden Skin – Grilling gives the chicken an irresistible, crispy finish.
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Hands-Off Cooking – Once on the grill, it needs minimal attention.
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Perfect for Gatherings – A fun and impressive centerpiece for BBQs or parties.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect beer can chicken on the grill:
For the Chicken:
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1 whole chicken (about 4–5 pounds)
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 (12-ounce) can of beer (lager or ale)
For the Dry Rub:
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2 teaspoons kosher salt
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Optional Extras:
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Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley) inside the cavity
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Lemon or lime wedges for stuffing or garnish
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BBQ sauce for brushing in the last 10 minutes (optional)
Timing & Servings
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Grill Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
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Servings: 4–6 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions for Beer Can Chicken on the Grill
Step 1: Prep the Grill
Set up your grill for indirect heat. For a gas grill, turn on one or two burners on one side and leave the other side off. For a charcoal grill, pile coals to one side only.
Preheat to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
Step 2: Prep the Chicken
Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the bird dry with paper towels. Dry skin helps it crisp up on the grill.
Rub the entire chicken, inside and out, with olive oil.
Step 3: Apply the Dry Rub
Mix all the spices together in a small bowl. Generously rub the seasoning mix over the whole chicken, making sure to cover all sides and under the skin if possible.
Step 4: Prepare the Beer Can
Open the can of beer and pour out (or drink!) about half. Use a church key to poke a few additional holes in the top. This allows the steam to escape evenly into the chicken.
Insert fresh herbs, garlic, or citrus slices into the can for added aroma, if desired.
Step 5: Mount the Chicken
Carefully lower the chicken onto the beer can so that it sits upright, legs down, with the can fully inserted into the cavity. The chicken should be stable like a tripod.
Step 6: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken (with beer can) on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat). Close the lid and cook for about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thigh.
Avoid opening the lid too often; this helps maintain a steady temperature.
Step 7: Finish with BBQ Sauce (Optional)
In the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce for a glossy, caramelized finish.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Carefully remove the chicken from the grill using tongs and an oven mitt (the can will be extremely hot). Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
Remove the can, carve the chicken, and serve hot.
Choosing the Best Beer
Light Lagers
These are mild and won’t overpower the chicken’s flavor—great for a classic taste.
Wheat Beers
Add a slightly fruity, aromatic profile that pairs well with herbs and citrus.
IPAs or Ales
Use sparingly; they bring bold flavor but may make the chicken bitter if too hoppy.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Non-alcoholic beers or even soda (like ginger ale) can be used for a family-friendly twist.
Flavor Variations
Cajun Beer Can Chicken
Use a Cajun spice rub with smoked paprika, cayenne, oregano, and thyme for bold Southern flavor.
Lemon-Herb Chicken
Add lemon zest to the rub and stuff the cavity with rosemary and lemon slices.
Garlic Butter Glaze
Brush with a garlic butter sauce just before serving for rich flavor.
Tips for Perfect Beer Can Chicken
Use a Meat Thermometer
Always check internal temperature. It should be 165°F in the breast and 175°F in the thighs.
Don’t Skip the Rest Time
Resting helps the juices redistribute for moist, tender meat.
Secure the Chicken
Make sure the bird is stable before placing it on the grill—use a beer can holder for extra support if needed.
Avoid High Heat
Too much heat can cause flare-ups and burn the outside before the inside is done. Keep the heat indirect and moderate.
Equipment Suggestions
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Gas or charcoal grill with lid
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Meat thermometer
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Grill-safe gloves or oven mitts
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Beer can chicken holder (optional but helpful)
Serving Suggestions
Beer can chicken pairs well with a variety of sides for a full BBQ meal:
Great Side Dishes:
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Grilled corn on the cob
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Baked beans
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Coleslaw
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Potato salad
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Garlic mashed potatoes
Bread Options:
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Beer bread
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Cornbread muffins
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Toasted rolls
Storing & Reheating
Refrigeration:
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Freeze cooked chicken in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Reheat in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F until warmed through, or use the microwave in short intervals.
Make-Ahead Tips
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Dry Rub Ahead: Apply the rub to the chicken and refrigerate up to 24 hours ahead.
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Beer Can Ready: Prep the beer can (poke holes, add herbs) before grilling.
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Meal Prep: Use leftover chicken in sandwiches, tacos, or salads the next day.
FAQs
Can I use a different drink instead of beer?
Yes! Apple cider, soda, or broth can be used instead of beer for different flavors.
Is beer can chicken safe?
Yes, as long as you use a standard, unopened beer can and avoid coatings or paint that could release toxins under heat.
What’s the best type of grill?
Both charcoal and gas grills work well. The key is indirect heat and a covered cooking environment.
Can I make this in the oven?
Yes. Place the chicken upright on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Conclusion
Beer can chicken on the grill is more than just a fun cooking technique—it’s a flavorful, juicy, and visually stunning dish that belongs in every griller’s rotation. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and spectacular results, it’s the perfect recipe for summer barbecues, weekend cookouts, or even weeknight grilling.
Now that you’ve mastered beer can chicken, try pairing it with homemade beer bread, grilled vegetables, or a creamy potato salad for the ultimate backyard meal.