beer can grilled chicken recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best beer can grilled chicken recipe

I’m so excited to share this beer can grilled chicken recipe with you. It’s a family favorite that’s been passed down through generations, and for good reason – it’s incredibly easy to make and tastes amazing. The key to this recipe is the way the beer can is used to infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.

It’s a game-changer for any backyard barbecue or potluck gathering. I’ve made this recipe for my kids’ birthday parties, family reunions, and even just for a quick weeknight dinner. They all love it, and I’m sure you will too.

The best part? It’s relatively healthy, with lean protein and minimal added sugars. I like to serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

The smoky flavor from the grill pairs perfectly with the tangy beer sauce. My husband loves to make this recipe on our gas grill, but it works just as well on a charcoal grill or even in the oven if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. One of my kids has even asked me to make it for their college dorm room gatherings – that’s how much they love it!

I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, and it never fails to impress. It’s also super versatile – you can serve it with all sorts of sides, from classic coleslaw to more adventurous options like kimchi or spicy pickles.

Beer Can Grilled Chicken

4.9 from 1799 votes

A classic beer can grilled chicken recipe that keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful. The beer infuses the meat with a unique taste while grilling.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time60 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time75 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs
4 chicken drumsticks

For the Seasoning

1 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp black pepper

For the Beer

4 cans of your favorite beer

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F.
2Clean the grill grates thoroughly to remove any residue from previous grilling sessions.
3Drain the beer from the cans and discard it.
4This ensures that the chicken does not become too soggy.
5Then, place the grill over the beer can and secure it with a grill.
6In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
7Mix well to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.
8Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken thighs and drumsticks, ensuring every piece is well coated.
9This will create a flavorful crust on the chicken as it grills.
10Place the chicken pieces on the grill, positioning them so that they are balanced and secure.
11Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook for about 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
12This will ensure the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
13After 30 minutes, open the grill and check the chicken for doneness.
14If the chicken is not yet cooked through, close the grill and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
15The chicken should be golden brown and slightly charred in spots, indicating that it has been properly grilled.
16Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
17This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and juicy chicken.
18After resting, serve the chicken hot and enjoy with your favorite sides.

🔧Equipment

Grill
Grill brush
Tongs
Meat thermometer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 4.5g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 5g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: You can experiment with different types of beer to achieve unique flavors. Also, adding vegetables to the grill alongside the chicken can enhance the overall meal.

This beer can grilled chicken recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a big party or just need something quick and easy for dinner. One of my favorite things about this recipe is that it’s so easy to scale up or down depending on your needs – whether you’re feeding a crowd of 20 or just one or two people.

I like to serve leftovers cold in sandwiches or wraps – they’re perfect for picnics or road trips too! The smoky flavor from the grill pairs perfectly with all sorts of sides and sauces – feel free to get creative and try out new combinations.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beer Can Grilled Chicken

Q: What type of beer is best for this recipe?

The type of beer you use is up to personal preference, but I find that a light-colored lager works best for this recipe. You can use any type of beer you like, but keep in mind that darker beers will give a stronger flavor.

Q: Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast if you prefer – just be aware that they may dry out slightly faster than thighs due to their lower fat content.

Q: How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?

To check if the chicken is cooked through, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of one of the breast pieces – it should read at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance – just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover beer can grilled chicken?

You can store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days – reheat it in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

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