Description

A simple and flavorful grilled chicken recipe using just three ingredients: whole chicken, beer, and seasoning blend. Perfect for quick, fuss-free outdoor cooking with juicy meat and crispy skin.

Ingredients

Whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds / 1.8-2.3 kg), skin-on and bone-in
Beer (12 oz / 355 ml can), preferably a lager or pale ale like Pilsner or Bud Light
Seasoning blend (2-3 tablespoons) – salt, black pepper, smoked paprika; optional garlic powder or onion powder

Instructions

Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F / 190°C) using indirect cooking.
Remove giblets from the chicken cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
Season the chicken liberally all over with the seasoning blend, inside and out.
Open the beer can and remove about half (leave about 6 oz / 180 ml in the can).
Mount the chicken cavity onto the beer can so it stands upright, using legs as a tripod.
Place the chicken upright on the grill over indirect heat, close the lid, and cook for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes.
After about 50 minutes, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Carefully remove the chicken from the grill and tent with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10-15 minutes.
Carve the chicken and serve hot.

Notes

Use indirect heat to avoid burning. Avoid opening the grill lid frequently to maintain temperature. For extra crispy skin, move chicken over direct heat for 2-3 minutes at the end. The beer can liquid can be saved and used for pan sauce after straining. If chicken wobbles, use a holder or nestle in a grill-safe pan. Substitute beer with non-alcoholic malt beverage or sparkling water if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 ounces (85 grams)
Calories: 140160
Fat: 46
Protein: 2528

Keywords: beer can chicken, grilled chicken, easy chicken recipe, 3-ingredient chicken, backyard grilling, simple chicken recipe, beer chicken