Introduction
Are you looking to impress your friends and family with a delicious BBQ dish? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the steps to make mouth-watering BBQ beer butt chicken. This recipe is perfect for a summer gathering or a casual weekend cookout. Get ready to enjoy tender and juicy chicken infused with the flavors of beer and spices!
What is Beer Butt Chicken?
Beer butt chicken, also known as beer can chicken, is a cooking method where a whole chicken is placed over an open can of beer and grilled. The chicken cooks slowly, allowing the beer to steam and infuse its flavors into the meat. This technique results in moist and flavorful chicken with crispy skin.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
– 1 whole chicken (approximately 4-5 pounds)
– 1 can of beer (preferably a light or lager beer)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of your favorite BBQ rub
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup of ketchup
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water and patting it dry with paper towels. Place the chicken on a cutting board and rub it with olive oil, ensuring it is evenly coated. Season the chicken with your favorite BBQ rub, salt, and pepper, both inside and outside.
Step 2: Open the Beer Can
Open the can of beer and pour out or drink about half of it. You want to leave some beer in the can to create steam while cooking. You can also add some additional spices or herbs to the beer for extra flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken and Beer Can
Insert the beer can into the cavity of the chicken, making sure it sits upright. The chicken should be balanced on its legs and the beer can, forming a tripod. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and prevents it from toppling over.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. Make sure to clean the grates and oil them to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken, standing upright, on the grill. Close the lid and let it cook for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Make sure to monitor the temperature using a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Prepare the BBQ Sauce
In a small saucepan, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients. Heat the sauce over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 7: Glaze the Chicken
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the BBQ sauce, ensuring it is evenly coated. This will create a flavorful glaze and add a touch of sweetness to the chicken.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill, using oven mitts or tongs. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a more tender and juicy chicken. Carve the chicken and serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make delicious BBQ beer butt chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and fire up the grill. This recipe is sure to be a hit at your next BBQ party or family gathering. Enjoy the flavors of tender chicken infused with the essence of beer and spices. Happy grilling!
