Beer Can Chicken Recipe

While the days for braaing are almost at an end there is still the odd warm day when you might want to crank up the Weber and pretend it's summer. This popular recipe is ideal - if it suddenly starts to rain you can cook the bird in the oven. 

Prep time: 10 minutes
Grilling time: 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours
Serves: 4 to 6
 

Ingredients
 

Rub

• 1         teaspoon dry mustard
• 1         teaspoon granulated onion
• 1         teaspoon paprika
• 1         teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2      teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2      teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2      teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2      teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

       
1         whole chicken, 1.5kg to 2kg
2         teaspoons vegetable oil
       
1         can (475ml) Castle Lager (tall boy)
 

Method

   
1. In a small bowl combine the rub ingredients.

2. Remove and discard the neck, giblets, and any excess fat from the chicken. Rinse the chicken, inside and out, under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Lightly brush or spray all over with the vegetable oil and season, inside and out, with the rub.

3. Open the beer can and pour off half of the beer (and drink it!) Set the half-full can on a flat surface and slide the chicken over the top so the can fits inside the cavity. Transfer the bird to the grill, keeping the can upright. Carefully balance the bird on its two legs and the can. Grill over indirect medium heat (180°C to 230°C) until the juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 75°C in the breast and 80°C in the thickest part of the thigh, 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 hours. Keep the lid closed as often as possible during grilling.

4. Wearing barbecue mitts, carefully remove the chicken and the can from the grill, being careful not to spill the beer—it will be hot. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before lifting it from the can. Discard the beer. Cut the chicken into serving pieces. Serve warm.

Recipe source: www.weber.co.za