How to Make Beer Can Chicken

Prep Time: 20 min. | Cook Time: 2.5 hours

There’s no doubt you’ve seen Beer Can Chicken prepared more times than a few. It’s certainly a grilling classic but have YOU ever made it? Get your smoker rollin’ and get your taste buds ready to prepare this smoked spin on Beer Can Chicken.

To start, you’ll need 1 whole chicken (4-5lbs.), 3 Tbsp of olive oil, 2 Tbsp of both salt and pepper, 2 Tbsp of the rub of your choice, and last but not least, 1 can of your beer of choice.

Crack your beer open and get ready to go low n’ slow. Preheat your smoker to 225-275°F by adding the desired coals to your Side Fire Box. Don’t have a Side Fire Box? Don’t worry! You can still enjoy the smoking experience. Simply arrange your coals opposite of where you plan to place the chicken within your grill. If you plan to sit it in the middle, then arrange your coals on the perimeter, and so forth.

Combine your salt, pepper and rub thoroughly, then coat the entire chicken (including the cavity) with olive oil, followed by the rub. If you have any remaining, be sure to store it in an airtight container for a future cook.

As we prepare to get the chicken smokin’, either drink or pour out ¼ to ½ of the can of beer. Place the chicken at the center of the grill on top of the beer can with both the chicken legs and the beer can holding it upright. Close the smoker.

Allow the chicken to cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (around 2 hours). Remove the chicken and wrap in aluminum foil or butcher paper, letting it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. Serve it warm and enjoy!