Spice Up Your Grill Game with Beer Can Chicken and Beer Pairings

Summertime means firing up the grill and cooking up some delicious meals. One way to make your backyard BBQ more exciting is to spice up your grill game with beer can chicken. This recipe not only elevates your chicken to a delicious level, but it also adds a unique twist to cooking. And, let’s not forget about the beer pairings that will complement this dish perfectly.

Beer Can Chicken Recipe

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect beer can chicken:

Ingredients:

• -1 whole chicken (4-5 pounds)
• -1 can of beer
• -2 tablespoons of your favorite dry rub
• -1 tablespoon of olive oil
• -Salt and pepper
• -Garlic powder

Instructions:

1. – Preheat grill to medium heat (around 350°F).
2. – Open the can of beer and take a few swigs (or pour out about half of the beer).
3. – Mix dry rub, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
4. – Remove giblets from chicken and rinse inside and out with cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
5. – Rub olive oil on chicken skin and sprinkle dry rub mixture inside and outside of chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated.
6. – Place the half-full can of beer on a sturdy, flat surface. Then, place the chicken upright onto the can so that the can is inserted into the cavity of the chicken.
7. – Carefully place the chicken (with the can) on the grill, making sure it’s secure and won’t tip over. Cook for 1 and a half to 2 hours, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
8. – Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before removing the can and serving.

Beer Pairings

Now, onto the fun part – choosing the perfect beer to pair with your beer can chicken. Here are a few options that go perfectly with this dish:

1. IPA

IPAs are known for their hoppy and bitter taste, which makes them a great complement to the flavorful chicken. The bitterness also helps to balance out the sweetness of the chicken’s dry rub.

2. Pilsner

Pilsners are crisp and refreshing, which makes them an excellent pairing for the rich and flavorful chicken. They are also a great option for anyone who prefers a lighter beer.

3. Belgian Ale

Belgian ales have a spicy and fruity taste, which makes them an excellent pairing for the flavors of the dry rub. The carbonation also helps to cleanse your palate between bites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep my beer can chicken from tipping over on the grill?

It’s essential to make sure that your beer can chicken is secure on the grill. One way to do this is to use a chicken holder specifically designed for this recipe. If you don’t have a holder, make sure that the chicken is balanced evenly on the can and that it’s placed in the center of the grill.

Can I use different types of beer for this recipe?

Absolutely! Experiment with different types of beer to find the perfect flavor combination. Just remember that the goal is to add flavor to the chicken, not overpower it.

Do I need to use a dry rub for my beer can chicken?

You don’t necessarily have to use a dry rub, but it does add a ton of flavor to the chicken. If you don’t have a dry rub, you can use a marinade or simply season the chicken with salt and pepper.

Conclusion

Next time you fire up the grill, don’t settle for boring chicken. Try out this beer can chicken recipe and experiment with different beer pairings to create a meal that your whole family will love. Remember to follow the step-by-step instructions carefully and take your time to make this dish the star of your backyard BBQ. Cheers to a delicious meal and great company!