Food Friday: BEER Can Chicken for your Tailgate Party!

My husband, Tim made this great chicken recipe on the grill. Even the leftovers, toasted chicken sandwiches (BBQ and ranch) watered in our mouths. This would be a great recipe for you tailgate parties or for any outdoor guests.

Ingredients

3.5-4 lb chicken

12 oz can of beer

1 TB kosher salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp dried thyme

2 cloves garlic, bay leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat grill or set up charcoal grill for indirect grilling.
2. Combine salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, thyme to create a dry rub and apply all over the chicken as well as inside the cavity.
3. Open the can of beer and take a couple of gulps.
4. Add the garlic cloves and a few bay leaves to the beer.
5. Set the chicken on the can of beer by sliding the chicken cavity over the beer. Or use a beer can chicken holder.
6. Set the chicken upright on the grill with indirect heat. If you are not using a holder, double check the legs to make sure the chicken is standing securely.
7. Close the lid and cook the chicken until the internal temperature registers 180°. This could take anywhere from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on the size of the chicken and the heat of your grill. I usually allow about an hour.
8. When the chicken is done, remove carefully and allow to rest about 10 minutes.
9. Carefully remove the beer can.
10. Carve the bird up however you do it and eat!