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Baked Beer Can Chicken

Golden, crackly skin on the outside and tender, juicy meat inside, this Baked Beer Can Chicken transforms a simple whole bird into a show-stopping dinner. Roasted upright, it stays moist, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious in every slice.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 whole chicken about 4 to 5 pounds
  • 1 can beer mild lager preferred
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Equipment

  • Baking Dish
  • Meat Thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Move the oven rack to the lower middle position so the chicken has room to stand upright.
  2. Pat the chicken dry thoroughly with paper towels to help the skin crisp during baking.
  3. Rub olive oil all over the chicken, including under the wings and around the legs.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the seasoning evenly over the entire chicken.
  5. Open the can of beer and pour out about half of the liquid. Place the can in the center of a sturdy baking dish.
  6. Carefully lower the chicken over the beer can so it stands upright, using the legs to help stabilize it.
  7. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carefully lifting it off the can. Carve and serve warm.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can add a sprig of rosemary or a few garlic cloves inside the beer can. If you prefer not to use beer, substitute chicken broth or apple juice to create steam. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.