Smoky BBQ Beer Can Chicken Tailgate

Discover the ultimate game day dinner recipe with our Smoky BBQ Beer Can Chicken Tailgate dish that brings the excitement of a Friday-night tailgate right to your backyard.

Time: Prep - 15 mins, Cook - 1 hr 30 mins, Total - 1 hr 45 mins

Servings: 4

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Allergens

Wheat (if using store-bought BBQ rub or sauce containing gluten)

Ingredients

1. Whole chicken (3
4 lbs) 2. Can of beer (preferably a local craft) 3. BBQ rub (paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin) 4. BBQ sauce (choose your favorite or our homemade recipe)

Instructions

Prepare the chicken by removing giblets and washing with water. Pat dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ rub ingredients to taste. Coat the entire chicken with the mixture, making sure to get under the skin and in all crevices.
Open beer can and pour out half of its contents (for an adult only recipe). Place the can on a sturdy surface and carefully stand the chicken on top, so it balances upright.
Preheat your grill to medium high heat, around 350°F. Place the chicken, beer can in hand, on the prepped grill grate. Grill with the lid closed for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
During the last 20 minutes of cooking, baste the chicken frequently with BBQ sauce for a glossy, smoky finish.

Chef’s Insight

Don't forget to let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving to lock in juices and flavors.

Notes

Be creative with the BBQ rub and sauce to adapt this recipe to your taste preferences.

Substitutions

Replace beer with apple juice or chicken broth for non-alcoholic options. Use gluten-free BBQ rub and sauce to accommodate allergies.

Alternative Preparations

For indoor cooking, use a large roasting pan and preheat the oven to 350°F. Cook for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Alternative Methods

For a slow cooker, place chicken on a trivet with the beer can in hand and cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours.

Best Storage Practice

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking and consume within 3 days.

Shelf Life

3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Plating Tips

Use a platter to display the whole chicken, beer can still in place for presentation. Serve with your favorite side dishes like coleslaw, baked beans, or potato salad.

Nutrition Facts

(per serving): Calories - 725 kcal, Carbohydrates - 46g, Protein - 70g, Fat - 23g