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Crispy Beer Can Chicken Recipe with Garlic Herb Rub Easy and Perfect

crispy beer can chicken - featured image

A simple and flavorful recipe for crispy beer can chicken with a garlic herb rub that delivers juicy meat and crackling skin, perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • Whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs / 1.8-2.3 kg)
  • Beer (one 12 oz / 355 ml can) – a lighter lager or pale ale works best
  • Garlic cloves, minced (4-5 large cloves)
  • Fresh rosemary, finely chopped (2 tbsp)
  • Fresh thyme, leaves stripped from stems (2 tbsp)
  • Olive oil (3 tbsp)
  • Smoked paprika (1 tbsp)
  • Salt (2 tsp) – kosher or sea salt preferred
  • Black pepper, freshly ground (1 tsp)
  • Onion powder (1 tsp)

Instructions

  1. Remove any giblets from the cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and olive oil. Stir until it forms a thick paste.
  3. Use your hands or a basting brush to coat the entire chicken evenly with the garlic herb rub, including under the skin if possible.
  4. Open the beer and pour out or drink about half the can. Place the can on a stable surface, then carefully lower the chicken cavity over the can so it stands upright.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium indirect heat (about 350°F / 175°C) or preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Place the chicken upright on the grill or on a baking sheet/roasting pan in the oven.
  7. Roast or grill for about 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden and crispy.
  8. Carefully remove the chicken from the beer can and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry thoroughly before applying the rub to ensure crispy skin. Use indirect heat when grilling to avoid burning. Let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy. If skin browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperature. Substitute gluten-free beer or broth for gluten-free diets. Be cautious when removing the hot chicken from the beer can.

Nutrition

Keywords: beer can chicken, garlic herb rub, crispy chicken, grilled chicken, roasted chicken, easy chicken recipe, backyard barbecue, summer grilling