The first time I made beer can chicken, I was 100% sure I’d mess it up. I mean, it looks kind of intense, right? A whole chicken perched on a can, standing on the grill like it knows something I don’t.

But turns out? It’s so easy. The beer steams from the inside, keeping the chicken incredibly juicy, while the outside gets perfectly crispy and golden. Add your favorite BBQ rub or sauce, and you’ve got the kind of meal that makes everyone ask, “How’d you do that?”

It’s now a summer staple at our house — easy enough for a Sunday night, impressive enough for guests.

Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken (about 4–5 lbs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 tbsp BBQ dry rub (store-bought or homemade — see tip below)

• 1 can of beer (room temperature, half full)

• Optional: ½ cup BBQ sauce, for brushing during last few minutes

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium (about 375°F) using indirect heat. If using charcoal, bank the coals to one side.

2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, then sprinkle generously with BBQ rub, including under the skin if you like.

3. Open the beer and pour out (or drink) half. Carefully lower the chicken onto the can so it sits upright, with the can inside the cavity.

4. Place chicken on the grill, standing up on the cool side, using the legs to help prop it up if needed. Close the lid.

5. Grill for 60–75 minutes, rotating once or twice, until internal temp in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F.

6. Optional: Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes for a sticky glaze.

7. Carefully remove from grill (use tongs and a spatula), rest for 10–15 minutes, then carve and serve.

Sarah’s Tips

• Make your own rub: mix 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp brown sugar, ½ tsp salt, and ½ tsp black pepper.

• No beer? Use soda water, broth, or a lemon half inside the cavity for moisture.

• Serve with grilled corn, baked potatoes, or a simple slaw for a full summer plate.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 39g

• Carbs: 2g

• Fat: 27g

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 1g