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beer can chicken on pellet grill

Beer Can Chicken on Pellet Grill

Discover how to make juicy beer can chicken on pellet grill with this easy recipe. Perfect for BBQs and weeknight dinners alike.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 pounds)
  • 1 can of beer (your choice, lager or ale recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Equipment

  • Pellet Grill
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Beer Can or Alternative Liquid Container
  • Optional: Beer Can Chicken Throne for stability

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and lightly brush with olive oil.
  2. In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this blend all over the chicken.
  3. Let the chicken sit with the seasoning for 15 minutes.
  4. Preheat your pellet grill to 350°F and add wood pellets of your choice.
  5. Open your beer can and pour out about half of it.
  6. Place the chicken cavity over the beer can and ensure it's stable.
  7. Place the chicken on the grill and close the lid.
  8. Cook for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, checking for doneness.
  9. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F in the thickest part of the breast.
  10. Baste the chicken with melted butter halfway through cooking, if desired.
  11. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 30gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 2mgIron: 5mg

Notes

Feel free to swap beer for apple juice or chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version. Experiment with different spice blends and herbs to find your perfect flavor profile. Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months. Shredded chicken makes a great addition to salads or soups.
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