Baked Beer Can Chicken – Juicy, Crispy, and Full of Flavor
A flavorful, juicy whole chicken roasted upright with a can of beer.Crispy skin, tender meat, and smoky aromas make it irresistible.Perfect for family gatherings, BBQs, or weekend dinners.A fun, easy recipe that guarantees impressive results every time.
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 1 can (12 oz) beer
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp chili powder (optional for spice)
- Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub olive oil all over the chicken. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and chili powder in a bowl. Rub the spice mix over and under the skin.
- Open the beer can and pour out (or drink) about ¼ of it. Carefully place the chicken cavity over the beer can so it stands upright.
- Place the chicken and beer can on a baking sheet or roasting pan lined with foil.
- Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Carefully remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving. Garnish with lemon wedges and herbs.
Notes
- Choose a sturdy beer can so it can support the chicken’s weight.
- The type of beer can influence flavor—light lagers for mild taste, stouts for deeper notes.
- Ensure the chicken stands stable before baking to prevent tipping.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
- Resting the chicken before slicing keeps it juicy.