Beer can chicken: the chicken on the can

BBQ chicken on the can? Seriously?

Beer Can Chicken, also known as chicken on the can, has become a popular cooking technique in the barbecue world. This unusual method involves placing a beer can inside the chicken, creating a succulent, aromatic flavor combination.

In this article, we will explore the cooking process of Beer Can Chicken, its benefits, and provide some helpful tips for getting juicy, flavorful chicken. Get ready to discover a cooking technique that will transform your chicken into a barbecue lover's dream dish.

The Beer Can Chicken Cooking Process: Beer Can Chicken involves using a partially filled beer can as a support for the chicken while cooking.

Here's how you can cook delicious Beer Can Chicken

• Prepare the chicken : Choose an appropriately sized and already cleaned chicken. Rinse the chicken under running water and dry it with paper towels. Brush it with olive oil and season it with your favorite spices or RUB. Make sure to season the inside of the chicken too.
• Prepare the can of beer : Open a can of beer and drink or pour out - or drink - about a third of the contents. You can also flavor the beer by placing spices or herbs inside the can.
• Insert the can into the chicken : Place the beer can on the cooking surface and insert the chicken on top of it so that the can fits into the cavity of the chicken. The chicken's legs will act as a support to keep it upright.
• Cook the chicken : Light your charcoal or gas grill and adjust the temperature to medium heat. Place the chicken on the grill, beer can side down. Close the lid of the barbecue and cook the chicken slowly for about 1.5-2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 75-80°C. While cooking, you can brush the chicken with a mix of barbecue sauce or worchester to add even more flavor.
• Resting and serving : Once the chicken has reached the desired doneness, remove it from the grill carefully using tongs. Cover it with aluminum foil and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This will allow the juices to distribute evenly within the meat. Next, cut the chicken into pieces and serve with side dishes of your choice or barbecued vegetables: here we give you 5 vegetables perfect for chicken.

The advantages of Beer Can Chicken

Beer Can Chicken offers numerous benefits beyond just its spectacular appearance. Here's why you should try this cooking technique:

Moisture retention : The presence of the beer can inside the chicken helps retain moisture during cooking. This results in incredibly juicy and tender chicken, keeping the meat from drying out.

Intense aromas : The beer inside the can vaporizes during cooking, diffusing its aromas into the chicken. This adds a unique and delicious flavor to the meat, making Beer Can Chicken a perfect option for lovers of bold flavors.

Even cooking : The chicken on the can technique allows for even cooking of the chicken. Being positioned in a vertical position, the heat is distributed evenly around the chicken, avoiding uneven cooking spots.

Visual impact : Beer Can Chicken is also a very spectacular dish. The chicken standing upright on the grill with the beer can inside catches the eye and adds a touch of originality to the presentation.

Tips for getting the best Beer Can Chicken

To ensure you get the perfect chicken on the can, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Choice of chicken : Choose fresh, high-quality chicken. Opt for a medium-sized chicken - such as whole free-range chicken - so it can fit comfortably in the beer can.

Seasonings : Customize the chicken seasonings to your liking. You can use a variety of spices, fresh herbs, barbecue sauce or marinades and RUB to achieve the desired flavor. Barbecue temperature : Be sure to adjust the temperature of your barbecue to medium heat between 165° - 180° C for 2-3 hours. Cooking over too high heat could burn the skin of the chicken, while cooking over too low heat could prolong the cooking time.

Food Safety : Use a clean, open beer can to avoid contamination. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 75-80°C to ensure safe and complete cooking.

Stability of the chicken : Make sure the chicken is well placed on the beer can and maintains its stability during cooking. The chicken's legs will act as a support to maintain balance.

Rest : After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to distribute evenly, making the meat even juicier and tastier.

BBQ chicken on the can: fun and taste

In conclusion, Beer Can Chicken is a fascinating cooking technique that delivers juicy, aromatic and visually impressive chicken. With the right precautions and good preparation, you can delight your guests with an extraordinary chicken dish.

Experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own unique style of Beer Can Chicken and enjoy the flavor and fun of this tasty preparation. Always remember to follow food safety guidelines and use fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure safe and delicious cooking.

So, next time you host a cookout or want to try a new cooking technique, consider making a Beer Can Chicken. You will surprise your guests with juicy and flavorful chicken, as well as creating a unique and fun experience during preparation. Fill your barbecue with aroma and flavor with this fantastic recipe. Have fun and enjoy your meal!