Go Back
Smoked beer can chicken

Smoked Beer Can Chicken

Delicious Smoked Beer Can Chicken you can try at home.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tsp mild chili powder
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 whole chicken, about 4 pounds, giblets removed
  • 1 can beer, lager or German-style preferred
  • 2 tbsp chopped onion
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions
 

  • Gather the ingredients. Preheat a smoker to 225 to 250 F.
  • Combine the chili powder, salt, and onion powder and then rub all over the chicken.
  • Open the beer and pour out (or better yet, drink) half of the can. Use a can opener to cut off the top of the beer can. Add the chopped onion, vinegar, and garlic to the beer can.
  • Working over a tray, carefully place the chicken cavity over the beer can, ensuring it almost completely covers the can. Transfer to the middle of the smoker rack and ensure it stands up properly. Smoke for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the internal temperature of the thigh reaches between 165 and 170 F on an instant-read thermometer.
  • Once cooked, remove from the heat and place onto a cutting board. Loosely tent the chicken with aluminum foil and let rest for 7 to 10 minutes before removing the can and carving the chicken.