Beer butt chicken

Beer Butt Chicken

Beer Butt Chicken, also known as Beer Can Chicken or Drunken Chicken, is a popular method of cooking chicken that involves placing a partially filled beer can inside the cavity of a whole chicken and grilling or roasting it. The steam from the beer helps to keep the chicken moist and infuses it with a subtle flavor.

Ingredients

To make Beer Butt Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 can of beer (preferably a light beer)
• Dry rub or seasoning of your choice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare and cook Beer Butt Chicken:

1. Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat. 2. Open the can of beer and pour out about half of it. You can drink it or discard it. 3. Season the chicken with your preferred dry rub or seasoning. Make sure to season both the outside and inside of the chicken. 4. Rub the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. 5. Carefully lower the chicken onto the beer can, inserting the can into the cavity of the chicken. The chicken should be standing upright with the can acting as a support. 6. Place the chicken on the grill or in a roasting pan and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the chicken. 7. Remove the chicken from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carefully removing the beer can. Be cautious as the can and the liquid inside will be hot. 8. Carve the chicken and serve it with your favorite side dishes.

Variations

While the classic Beer Butt Chicken recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different flavors and seasonings. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Citrus Beer Butt Chicken: Instead of using a regular beer, use a citrus-flavored beer or add some lemon or orange slices to the beer can for a tangy twist.
• Spicy Beer Butt Chicken: Add some heat to your chicken by using a spicy dry rub or seasoning blend. You can also add a few dashes of hot sauce to the beer can for an extra kick.
• Herb-infused Beer Butt Chicken: Place fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or sage, inside the beer can to infuse the chicken with aromatic flavors.
• Barbecue Beer Butt Chicken: Baste the chicken with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a smoky and tangy flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Beer Butt Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Grilled vegetables, such as corn on the cob, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Coleslaw or potato salad.
• Baked beans or cornbread.
• Fresh salad or steamed rice.

See Also

• Grilling
• Roasting
• Barbecue
• Chicken Recipes