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Flavorful Grilled Beer Can Chicken Recipe with Zesty Lemon Herb Rub Made Easy

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A juicy and tender grilled beer can chicken with a zesty lemon herb rub that delivers crispy skin and bright, savory flavors. Perfect for easy weekend grilling and outdoor gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 whole chicken (4 to 5 pounds, preferably organic or free-range)
  • 1 standard 12 oz (355 ml) can of beer (lager or pale ale recommended)
  • Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken (15 minutes): Remove any giblets from the cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Loosen the skin gently with your fingers to allow the rub to penetrate better.
  2. Make the Lemon Herb Rub (5 minutes): In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Stir until well mixed and aromatic.
  3. Rub the Chicken (10 minutes): Spread the lemon herb rub all over the chicken, including under the skin and inside the cavity. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prep the grill.
  4. Preheat the Grill (10 minutes): Set up your grill for indirect heat—medium-high on one side and off on the other. Aim for around 375°F (190°C). Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
  5. Set up the Beer Can (5 minutes): Open the beer can and drink or pour out about half. Optionally add herbs or a smashed garlic clove inside the can. Place the chicken cavity over the beer can, ensuring stability.
  6. Grill the Chicken (60-75 minutes): Place the chicken upright on the indirect heat side of the grill. Close the lid and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  7. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the temperature. The skin should be golden brown and crisp.
  8. Rest the Chicken (10 minutes): Remove the chicken from the grill carefully and let it rest upright off the beer can on a platter to allow juices to redistribute before carving.

Notes

If skin darkens too quickly, move chicken to indirect heat or lower grill temperature. Do not rush resting time to keep chicken juicy. For gluten-free, use gluten-free beer or substitute with sparkling water and lemon juice. Marinating overnight intensifies flavor but avoid over-marinating to prevent texture changes.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, beer can chicken, lemon herb rub, backyard barbecue, easy grilling, summer recipe, outdoor cooking

Find it online: https://junomeals.com/flavorful-grilled-beer-can-chicken-recipe-with-zesty-lemon-herb-rub-made-easy/