Smoking Beer Can Chicken on a Gas Grill
Smoking beer can chicken on a gas grill is a delicious and easy way to prepare a juicy and flavorful bird. This cooking method infuses the chicken with the flavors of the beer and the smokiness from the grill, resulting in a mouthwatering dish that is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1 can of beer
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite dry rub or seasoning
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood work well)
- Barbecue sauce (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your gas grill to a temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C).
- Open the can of beer and take a few sips to make some room in the can.
- Season the chicken with your favorite dry rub or seasoning, making sure to coat the entire bird, including the cavity.
- Place the beer can on a solid surface and carefully lower the chicken onto the can, inserting it into the cavity. The chicken should be in a standing position with the beer can acting as a base.
- Transfer the chicken to the grill and place it on the upper rack, if available, to cook using the indirect heat method.
- Add the wood chips to the smoker box or to a smoker pouch and place it on the grill. This will infuse the chicken with a delicious smoky flavor.
- Cover the grill and let the chicken smoke for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Carefully remove the chicken from the grill, using tongs to support the bottom. Be cautious of the hot beer can inside the cavity.
- Let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before carefully removing the beer can. The steam from the beer will have helped to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Carve the chicken and serve with your favorite barbecue sauce, if desired.
Smoking beer can chicken on a gas grill is a fun and delicious way to cook a whole chicken. The beer infuses the meat with moisture and flavor, while the smoky grill adds a depth of taste that is sure to make this dish a favorite in your household. So fire up the grill, crack open a cold one, and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering smoked beer can chicken!
Share your tips and tricks on how to smoke beer can chicken on a gas grill in the Cooking Techniques forum and let’s discuss!
FAQ:
What type of wood chips should I use for smoking beer can chicken on a gas grill?
You can use a variety of wood chips for smoking beer can chicken, such as hickory, apple, cherry, or mesquite. Each type of wood will impart a unique flavor to the chicken, so choose based on your personal preference.
How long should I smoke beer can chicken on a gas grill?
The smoking time for beer can chicken on a gas grill can vary depending on the size of the chicken and the temperature of the grill. Generally, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at a temperature of 275-300°F (135-150°C) for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Do I need to brine the chicken before smoking it on a gas grill?
Brining the chicken before smoking can help keep it moist and flavorful. You can prepare a simple brine using salt, sugar, and water, and let the chicken soak in the brine for a few hours before smoking.
Should I remove the skin from the chicken before smoking it on a gas grill?
It’s generally recommended to leave the skin on the chicken when smoking it. The skin helps to retain moisture and flavor, and it can become deliciously crispy during the smoking process.
Can I use a beer can chicken holder on a gas grill?
Yes, you can use a beer can chicken holder on a gas grill to keep the chicken stable and upright while it smokes. This can help ensure even cooking and make it easier to handle the chicken when it’s hot.
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