Beer Can Chicken on the Traeger: A Mouth-Watering Recipe For BBQ Lovers

If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful way to cook your chicken on the grill, then you ought to try beer can chicken on the Traeger. This method of cooking chicken produces tender, juicy meat with a crispy skin that is sure to impress. Not to mention, it’s a fun and exciting way to cook chicken. The beer can, when inserted into the chicken, helps to keep it moist and give it added flavor. This recipe is perfect for BBQ lovers who are looking to take their grilling game to the next level.

Ingredients

First things first, let’s get the ingredients that you’re going to need for this recipe.

• 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs.)
• 1 can of beer (your choice of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ¼ cup olive oil

Preparation

Now that you have all of your ingredients, it’s time to start the preparation process.

1. Preheat your Traeger grill to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rinse your chicken with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
4. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and then rub the spice mixture all over the chicken.
5. Open the beer can and take a few sips to reduce the amount of liquid in the can by about 1/3.
6. Insert the beer can into the cavity of the chicken, making sure the chicken is balanced on the can and the can is securely in place.
7. Place the chicken on the Traeger grill and cook for approximately 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Serving

Once your chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

After resting, you can serve your beer can chicken on the Traeger with your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, and roasted vegetables are all great options. Don’t forget to pour yourself a cold beer to enjoy with your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of beer should I use for this recipe?

You can use any type of beer that you prefer. Some people swear by using a lager or pilsner, while others prefer to use a darker beer for a deeper flavor. The important thing is that you use a beer that you enjoy drinking, as the flavor of the beer will infuse into the chicken.

Do I need a special beer can holder for this recipe?

No, you don’t need a special beer can holder. Simply balance the chicken on the can and the can will act as a stand for the chicken.

Can I use this recipe for a larger chicken?

Yes, you can use this recipe for a larger chicken. Just make sure that you adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the chicken reaches the proper internal temperature.

In conclusion, beer can chicken on the Traeger is a tasty and entertaining way to cook chicken. This recipe combines the flavors of beer and spices to create a mouth-watering dish that is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ. So fire up the grill, crack open a beer, and get ready for a chicken dinner that you won’t soon forget.