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Pit Boss Beer Can Chicken

Pit Boss beer can chicken is a classic BBQ favorite that is sure to please family and friends. This easy to follow recipe allows you to enjoy the flavor of smoked chicken without all the fuss. With just a few simple steps, you can create juicy, succulent poultry that has been infused with an unbeatable flavor. 

pit boss beer can chicken

Smoked beer can chicken ingredients

To make your own smoked beer can chicken, you’ll need some key ingredients:

  • Whole chicken
  • Can of beer
  • Your favorite chicken rub

How to smoke beer can chicken

To get started, you’ll need a whole chicken, a can of beer, and your favorite BBQ rub.

Start by preheating your Pit Boss smoker to 250F.

Then, open the can of beer and place it into the center of the chicken cavity.

Next, sprinkle the BBQ rub onto the outside of the chicken, making sure to cover all surfaces.

Place the chicken onto the smoker and allow it to cook for approximately two hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F.

How to get crispy skin on smoked chicken

The secret to a perfectly crispy skin is to prepare the chicken properly before and during the smoking process. To get started, make sure the chicken is dry before placing it in the smoker. You can do this by patting it down with paper towels or letting it air dry overnight.

Once you’ve prepped the chicken, season it with your favorite rub and avoid spritzing any liquid onto the chicken.

Lastly increase the heat to 350F the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What kind of beer to use

Generally, a beer with a lower alcohol content is best so that the flavor of the beer isn’t overpowering. Lagers, pilsners, and light ales all work well. You also want to make sure that you’re using a beer with enough carbonation to steam the chicken.

The most important thing is to use a beer that you like, as its flavor will be infused into the meat during cooking. Experimenting with different types of beer can be a great way to find the perfect flavor for your beer can chicken.

beer can chicken pit boss

Can I use soda instead

What if you don’t like beer? Can you use soda instead? The answer is yes! While beer provides flavor to the chicken, you can use soda for the same purpose.

All you need to do is simply replace the beer with a can of your favorite soda. However, some sodas are better suited for this method than others. For best results, opt for a low-sugar soda with a stronger flavor that won’t overpower the chicken.

Once your chicken is prepared and placed on top of the can of soda, cook as you would normally cook beer can chicken. The end result should be just as delicious.

What dry rub to use

To get the most out of your beer can chicken, you’ll need to use the right dry rub. The right dry rub will help to bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and add a unique smoky flavor.

When choosing a dry rub for beer can chicken, look for one that contains garlic, onion, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, cumin, and brown sugar. These ingredients will help to create a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the beer.

Additionally, you may want to add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to give your beer can chicken an extra kick. 

What to serve

To ensure your beer can chicken is an absolute hit, it’s important to serve it with the right side dishes. Whether you’re looking for a classic complement or something a bit out of the ordinary, here are some of the best sides to serve with beer can chicken.

For a simple option, try roasting potatoes in the oven alongside your chicken. Cut potatoes into cubes, toss them in olive oil and your favorite seasonings, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast until golden brown.

If you want something to add a bit of crunch, try making homemade potato chips. Slice potatoes thinly, fry them in oil until they’re golden and crispy, and season with salt and pepper.

For a delicious carb-filled side, try macaroni and cheese. Boil macaroni in water until al dente, mix with a creamy cheese sauce, bake until bubbly and golden, and serve warm.

For a healthy option that’s packed with flavor, try grilled asparagus. Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling over medium-high heat for five to seven minutes.

To give your meal an extra kick of sweetness, try serving roasted corn on the cob. Soak fresh corn on the cob in cold water for 10 minutes before rubbing with butter and seasoning with chili powder before roasting in the oven for 20 minutes or grilling for 10 minutes. 

Storing leftover 

Storing leftover beer can chicken can be a great way to enjoy a meal for several days. In order to make sure that the meat stays fresh and flavorful for as long as possible, you must take the proper steps for storage.

The most important thing to remember is that the chicken must be refrigerated within two hours of cooking. If it has been sitting out at room temperature for longer than that, it should be discarded immediately.

Once the chicken has been refrigerated, it is best to use it within four days. If you plan on keeping it longer than that, you can freeze it. To prepare it for freezing, allow the chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. 

smoked beer can chicken

How to reheat

To reheat your left over beer can chicken, you will need an oven-safe dish, cooking spray, and aluminum foil. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease the oven-safe dish with the cooking spray. Place the chicken in the dish, cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 20 minutes.

Once done, remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until it’s heated through. Be sure to check that the chicken is at an internal temperature of 165°F before serving. For more flavor, you can brush the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce before baking.

Pit Boss Beer Can Chicken

Tired of the same old chicken recipes? Try something new with this delicious Pitt Boss Beer Can Chicken Recipe. It's sure to be a hit!

Course Main Course
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours

Ingredients

  • 1 piece Whole Chicken
  • 1 can Beer

Dry Rub

  • 4 tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 1 tbsp Salt
  • 1 tbsp Paprika
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
  • 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper

Instructions

  1. Set the smoker temperature to 250F.

  2. Take the brown sugar, salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and cayenee pepper then mix until evenly combined.

  3. Coat the whole chicken with the spice rub.

  4. Place the can of beer onto the grill grates then place the whole chicken on it.

  5. Smoke for 2 hours. The whole chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165F.

  6. Let the chicken rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Recipe Rating