Beer Can Chicken Recipe: A Homestead Favorite
This Beer Can Chicken Recipe is a true homestead favorite — simple, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor. A whole chicken is seasoned to perfection and roasted upright over a can of beer for tender, fall-off-the-bone meat and a perfectly crispy skin. Ideal for backyard barbecues, family gatherings, or Sunday dinners, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking on the grill or in the oven, this is one farm-style meal that never disappoints!
Equipment
- Beer can poultry stand
- Grill with lid
- Aluminum roasting pan
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken (4–5 lbs, giblets removed)
- 1 can of beer (12 oz)
- 3 TBSP olive oil or melted butter
- 1 TBSP brown sugar
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne optional
Instructions
Prep the Chicken:
- Rinse and pat dry. Combine the brown sugar and all of the spices in the oil and mix well. Rub the oil mixture over the skin, ensuring it completely covers the chicken.
Beer Setup:
- Open the beer can and pour out (or drink!) about 1/3. Place the can inside the beer can poultry stand, and then place the stand in an aluminum roasting pan. Carefully rest the chicken over it, cavity down.
Fire Up the Grill:
- Preheat your BBQ to medium heat (approx. 350°F). Set it up for indirect grilling: beer-can chicken goes on the cool side with the lid closed.
Grill Time:
- Place the upright bird on the grill, lid closed, for 60–75 minutes. Target internal temp is 165°F in the thigh. Rotate the chicken if needed for even browning.
Rest & Carve:
- Carefully lift the chicken off the can and place it on a cutting board. Tent with foil and rest 10 minutes. Carve into pieces and serve.
Notes
Homestead Tip: Save the flavorful drippings to make a quick pan gravy or use them to baste roasted potatoes — nothing goes to waste on the homestead!
Special Tools (affiliate links): Beer Can Chicken Holder
