Looking for the best beer can chicken seasoning ingredients? You’ve come to the right place. Beer can chicken is a must-try for lovers of all things grilled and seasoned, and a definite favorite of ours here at Spicy and Seasoned. Below, we’ll be sharing a simple beer can chicken rub and tips on how to cook it to perfection. It’s an easy yet interesting way to cook chicken, with an unbelievably juicy and evenly cooked result.
Beer Can Chicken Seasoning: Make Your Own Rub!
What You’ll Need:
While a lot of online recipes would ask you to get a bottle of store-bought spice or BBQ rub, there’s nothing quite like making your own. Without further ado, these are the ingredients you’ll need for a delicious beer can chicken seasoning.
- 2 tsp. black pepper
- 1 tbsp. cayenne pepper
- 2 tsp. dried oregano
- 2 tsp. dried thyme
- 1 tbsp. ground cumin
- 2 tsp. garlic powder
- 2 tbsp. onion powder
- 2 tbsp. salt
- 2 tbsp. smoked paprika
Mix the ingredients in a bowl, or in a salt/pepper shaker (for a more even application). It’s time to start cooking!
Note on Proper Storage: To increase shelf-life, seasonings should be stored in an airtight container. Make sure keep them in a cool, dry dark place to protect them from moisture and oxidation. Bear in mind that even with the proper storage, the seasoning’s quality, flavor, and freshness may last not more than two months.
Cooking the Beer Can Chicken: Tips for Perfection
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Coat the chicken with a layer of butter or olive oil. Rub the homemade seasoning all over the chicken. Make sure the seasoning clings to every inch of the chicken. Don’t forget to season under the skin!
Pro Tip: Inject more flavor into the meat by using a marinade injection or a seasoning stick. Inject the marinade or insert the seasoning stick into the breast and thigh parts of the chicken. Want it hotter? Try a Sriracha Seasoning Stix!
Step 2: Propping Up the Chicken
Open a 16 oz. can of lager beer. You’ll use about half the contents, so feel free to drink the rest! Use a knife or can opener to widen the hole on top of the beer can. Mix some of the seasonings in the beer if you like, or add bit of thyme, rosemary, and sage. Then, sit the chicken down on the can. Ensure that the can is at least halfway inside the chicken. Imagine a tripod: the chicken’s two legs and the can. It’s an unusual way to cook, but it works!
Pro Tip: Chicken wings are thinner and more prone to burning. To prevent this, tuck the chicken wing against the bird by reaching for the end part and pulling it towards the neck cavity.
Step 3: Start Cooking
If you’re using a grill, heat it up and put the chicken on it, making sure it’s stable throughout. Then, close the grill and resist the urge to check on it. After an hour, check the charcoal levels and the temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The thickest part of the thigh and the breast should be around 160 to 170°F. Don’t have a thermometer? Poke the thigh with a toothpick. If the juices run clear instead of a bit bloody, it’s good to go.
Pro Tip: Use a vegetable oil spray to prevent the skin from burning. The goal is a nice, golden brown hue.
Step 4: Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill. Be careful to prevent the can from sliding out of the chicken — the liquid inside will be piping hot. Use a pair of tongs and a spatula under the can to transfer the chicken to a plate. Bring it inside and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Remove and discard the can, slice the chicken into serving portions, and enjoy.
Pro Tip: If the can sticks to the chicken, get a tray, lay the chicken down, and pull it out with a pair of tongs.
Instead of a grill, this recipe could also work in an oven. Watch an easy version recipe from Poor Man’s Gourmet Kitchen below and modify it to your tastes:
There you go: Our very own special beer can chicken seasoning mix and recipe. In our opinion, it’s the perfect backyard BBQ dish, so get out there and start grilling!
Have you tried a beer can chicken seasoning recipe before? Tell us your tips in the comments below!
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